In his article, Craig B. Barkacs outlines the three foundational pillars of professionalism: competence, character, and connection. Competence requires ongoing learning and reliability, ensuring that professionals can meet expectations consistently. Character is defined by integrity and accountability, which are crucial for maintaining trust and ethical standards in the workplace. Connection emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and effective communication, enabling professionals to build meaningful relationships and collaborate effectively. Barkacs argues that these pillars are timeless and essential for navigating the evolving landscape of work, where superficial trends may come and go, but the core values of professionalism remain constant.