I finally realized that my definition of "professional" is different than most people's definition seems to be. It came about when I got tired of diddling around with writer's organizations that would only let you in if you had X qualifications from their approved markets. I realized that I was wasting time trying to get the approval of people whose rules I thought were stupid.
My definition of professional: 1) You are competent and reliable in your work, delivering a usable/enjoyable product on time and on length; you think of yourself as a pro and conduct yourself accordingly. 2) People pay you for your work.
I have noticed that a great many people who fit #2 do not seem capable of #1. I was shocked, appalled, and horrified by my very first editing experience, which involved working with Big Name Pros. Once I was able to sort out people for whom #1 was also a priority, things went much better.
I'm a professional writer because I do the work and people pay me for it. If other people don't consider that relevant, that's their problem. You want to impress me with my editor hat on? Flash me your manners, not your credits. You'll stand out like an oak tree on a prairie.
Re: Hmm...
My definition of professional:
1) You are competent and reliable in your work, delivering a usable/enjoyable product on time and on length; you think of yourself as a pro and conduct yourself accordingly.
2) People pay you for your work.
I have noticed that a great many people who fit #2 do not seem capable of #1. I was shocked, appalled, and horrified by my very first editing experience, which involved working with Big Name Pros. Once I was able to sort out people for whom #1 was also a priority, things went much better.
I'm a professional writer because I do the work and people pay me for it. If other people don't consider that relevant, that's their problem. You want to impress me with my editor hat on? Flash me your manners, not your credits. You'll stand out like an oak tree on a prairie.