Top 10 Qualities of a Professional

Professionalism is a concept often discussed but not always clearly defined. In our field, which includes building inspectors, plans examiners, building officials, architects, and engineers, the expectations for professionalism are both explicit and implicit. Whether you’re reviewing a set of plans, conducting an inspection, or collaborating on a project, these qualities form the foundation of trust, respect, and competence. Let’s explore the Top 10 Qualities that define a true professional in the building code industry, especially for building officials who set the tone for their teams.

Humility​

A professional knows when to admit a mistake, seek clarification, or defer to someone with more expertise. As I once said, “Eating a piece of humble pie should not be a problem if you are a professional.” Humility fosters growth, teamwork, and better decision-making.

Integrity​

Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, is a hallmark of professionalism. Integrity builds trust with colleagues, clients, and the public, ensuring that your work is beyond reproach.

Accountability​

Professionals take responsibility for their actions and decisions. If a project doesn’t go as planned, they own up to their role and focus on solutions rather than excuses.

Communication Skills​

Clear, concise, and respectful communication is essential. Whether you’re explaining code requirements to a contractor or addressing a discrepancy with an architect, effective communication prevents misunderstandings and fosters collaboration.

Technical Expertise​

A professional stays informed about the latest codes, standards, and best practices. In an ever-evolving industry, ongoing education and a commitment to mastering the technical aspects of the job are non-negotiable.

Adaptability​

Change is constant, whether it’s a new code cycle, updated technology, or unforeseen challenges on a project. A professional embraces change and adapts with a problem-solving mindset.

Respect for Others​

Respect goes beyond politeness. It’s about valuing the perspectives, roles, and contributions of others—from contractors to clients. Mutual respect fosters a positive working environment and leads to better outcomes.

Attention to Detail​

In our field, overlooking a minor issue can lead to significant problems down the line. Professionals are meticulous, ensuring that every detail aligns with codes, standards, and project goals.

Ethical Decision-Making​

When faced with a tough call, a professional prioritizes safety, fairness, and the public good. This might mean making an unpopular decision but doing so with the confidence that it’s the right one.

Commitment to Excellence​

True professionals strive for excellence in everything they do. This commitment goes beyond meeting minimum requirements; it’s about setting a standard of quality and inspiring others to do the same.

Applying These Qualities in Our Industry​

For building officials, professionalism is not just a personal standard—it’s a cornerstone of effective leadership. Building officials set the tone for their teams, ensuring that inspectors, plans examiners, and other professionals work collaboratively and uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance. These qualities also foster trust and respect among the public and stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of our role in the construction process.

This list is particularly relevant for members of The Building Code Forum (TBCF), where professionals gather to exchange ideas, seek advice, and share experiences. By embracing these traits, we elevate not only ourselves but the entire community of code enforcement professionals.

These qualities aren’t just theoretical. They’re the guiding principles that help us navigate complex projects, resolve conflicts, and uphold the integrity of our work. By discussing these traits here on The Building Code Forum, we can continue to learn from one another and set the standard for what it means to be a professional in our industry.

What qualities do you think define a true professional? Join the discussion on TBCF and share your perspective.

 

[ICE]

Attention to Detail

Commitment to Excellence

Those are the same so that leaves room for another and I nominate, "Unflappable".

The ability to remain with a calm, focused demeanor no matter if faced with a pugnacious punk, a pernicious perpetrator or a pussycat on the prowl, the goal is always in sight. An unwavering devotion to self respect gets a lot done that sticks with you.

 

[Genduct]

Nice recap for the "Rules of Engagement"

My take on a lot of these situations is
We are usually making decisions when we only have some of the info we need to "do it right" So the "mistake" thing is often from the missing info. So remember, A Mistake is an ERROR that can't be corrected! When you hit that situation the reaction is Damn, didn't know that, SO Now We Have to do THIS ( whatever)
To Not Do this is a Mistake

Too often some people think they have to double down so they don't look stupid. Well doing the same thing over and over again and wondering why we get the same result, well that is not just stupid but the definition of Insanity

Of course that insanity thing is expected in the trades, so get use to it

 

[jar546]

Nice recap for the "Rules of Engagement"

My take on a lot of these situations is
We are usually making decisions when we only have some of the info we need to "do it right" So the "mistake" thing is often from the missing info. So remember, A Mistake is an ERROR that can't be corrected! When you hit that situation the reaction is Damn, didn't know that, SO Now We Have to do THIS ( whatever)
To Not Do this is a Mistake

Too often some people think they have to double down so they don't look stupid. Well doing the same thing over and over again and wondering why we get the same result, well that is not just stupid but the definition of Insanity

Of course that insanity thing is expected in the trades, so get use to it

More than once I had to change a fail to a pass because I misread the code. Sometimes, it is the difference between the words 'and' & 'or'.

I will eat humble pie if I am wrong. Conflict between contractor and inspector will result in someone learning something.

 

[Genduct]

More than once I had to change a fail to a pass because I misread the code. Sometimes, it is the difference between the words 'and' & 'or'.

I will eat humble pie if I am wrong. Conflict between contractor and inspector will result in someone learning something.

Great example with the and / or !

I would substitute the word Conflict with Conversation when describing the educational opportunity in an adult exchange of info / views /approach between Contractor and Plan Reviewer - Inspector.

Problem comes if we are having that conversation before or after "IT" is constructed or installed

 

[Genduct]

Those are the same so that leaves room for another and I nominate, "Unflappable".

The ability to remain with a calm, focused demeanor no matter if faced with a pugnacious punk, a pernicious perpetrator or a pussycat on the prowl, the goal is always in sight. An unwavering devotion to self respect gets a lot done that sticks with you.

Yep, how about the term "Open Mind" to describe the approach we need to get the job done.
Also we could mention the idea that "it wasn't how I would have done it ", but it still works.
There are a lot of traps that seem to feed the tension between Contractor and municipal people

 

[steveray]

The ability to remain with a calm, focused demeanor no matter if faced with a pugnacious punk, a pernicious perpetrator or a pussycat on the prowl, the goal is always in sight. An unwavering devotion to self respect gets a lot done that sticks with you.

Always alot of alliteration.