The ability to scan articles quickly, summarize them efficiently, and list sources in the correct MLA or APA format will be very useful to you. In your classes and as you continue learning throughout your life, you will need to be a quick study who demonstrates attention to detail. Moreover, frequently you will need to grasp a new subject area or field in a relatively short amount of time. Naturally, research typically starts with definitions of key terms. You have seen that many definitions for professionalism exist. Recently, an opportunity to practice your research skills has arisen when your boss was invited to make a presentation to a group of human relations officers. He asked you and a small group of fellow interns to help him find articles about professionalism, soft skills, and other interpersonal qualities.
Review Activity 10.11 in Chapter 10, and as a team divide your research in such a way that each intern is responsible for one or two search terms, depending on the size of your group. Look for articles with definitions of professionalism, business etiquette, civility, business ethics, social skills, soft skills, and social intelligence. Find at least three useful articles for each search term. If you get bogged down in your research, consult with a business librarian on campus or report to your instructor. After compiling your findings, as a team present your annotated works-cited list in an informational memo report to your boss, Ted Rollins.