CAREER: No longer an intern - Professionalism and transitioning

[Debo123]

(Not sure if this is the right location for this, but please move me if there's somewhere better.)

I am making the transition from being an intern in a professional environment to actually assisting in a professional environment. I've ASMed in the "real world" before, but now it's full fledged and full time, no "I'm an intern" label or September return to college to fall back on.
With this, I have been mulling over a few things and thought I'd seek some feedback.
So I ask:

What makes someone a professional?

For the seasoned folks, what qualities impress you in a young stage manager-- what tells you someone is progressing in their career and is not just a green SM anymore?

How do we qualitatively grow in our careers in ways that are less obvious than the quantitative business of mastering various paperwork styles and eloquently recording the rehearsal hotline? How does one do this early on in their career and get the most mileage out of it? How do those of you in the business for a long time continue to grow? What advice would you give your young self however many years ago when you were just starting professionally?

Excited to hear people's thoughts on this.

[Mac Calder]

In order:

What makes someone a professional? Well there is the "A professional is someone who makes a living from the job" answer - which is strictly true, but to me, professionalism is a state of mind. When you get into the 'office', and you put your all into making the show the best it can be, when you treat people in a "professional" manner, and when you demand the same of your colleagues.

What impresses me in a young stage manager? When they turn up early, or at worst, right on time. When they walk into the room confidently and command respect - not because of the position they hold, but due to their actions. When they can approach difficult situations in a clinical manner, solve the situation fairly and without causing too many bad feelings. When they know how to listen as well as how to talk.

The key to growth, in my opinion, is to know your limitations and your strengths, then play to your strengths, whilst making your weaknesses a non-issue. Then as you evolve, try and work on getting rid of your weaknesses.