2. INTRODUCTION
Profession means an occupation. It is based on
specialised knowledge.
The knowledge is used to serve others for fees. Professional
knowledge is acquired through intensive study, training, and
experience.
The use of such knowledge is not for self-satisfaction, but for a
larger interest of society and success of which cannot be
measured by money alone.
The professional render special type of services. It is
mandatory that every professional must hold minimum
prescribed qualifications and training.
For different professions, necessary academic qualifications
and training are compulsory. A profession involves limited
risk.
3. The efficiency of professional can be judged on the
basis of his education, knowledge and training.
Service of doctors, lawyers, C.A., architecture. Etc.
come under this category.
4. Features of Profession
Existence of Specialized Knowledge: A profession is based
on a systematic body of knowledge. For Example, doctors,
advocates, chartered/cost accountants, et al, require knowledge
relevant to their respective fields.
Service Motive: The motive of any profession is to provide
service to the society. If knowledge is used only for self-
satisfaction, it is not treated as a profession. Though
professionals charge (reasonable) fees for their services, the
success of the profession is measured in terms of social service,
and not in amount of money.
Need of Formal Education and Training: It is mandatory
for a professional (person) to acquire formal education and
undergo training in order to practise a specific profession.
Legally, one is not permitted to practise the profession without
requisite qualification(s).
5. Personal Factor: Personal factor is an important aspect in
any profession. Professional services cannot be rendered in
the absence of the professional. Professional’s capabilities and
qualities (i.e., personality) play an important role in satisfying
the clients.
Professional Association: Every profession has its
association. Professional association is a body of professionals
that regulates and develops the profession’s activities, and
prescribes rules for its membership. Examples of professional
associations are, Bar Council of India for legal practitioners,
and Indian Medical Council for medical practitioners.
Codes of Conduct (Ethical Practice): Every professional
is required to follow ethical standards, prescribed by the
regulatory body. Codes of conduct are necessary to protect the
interest of clients/society.
6. Continuous Development: Every profession need
to be progressive. Ongoing researches and
experiments offer distinct and superior ways to serve
clients more effectively. New techniques are
discovered and practised to keep the profession up to
date.
Reward or Remuneration: Fees is remuneration
for a profession. A professional receives fees from the
clients as a reward for his professional services. The
render service is a primary motive of any profession,
but professional service is not free of charge.
