The P.R.I.C.E. of Success Model

As a Herzing student, you have undoubtedly heard about the P.R.I.C.E. of Success Model. The P.R.I.C.E. Model is one of the University’s core values on which it bases its educational and professional philosophy. It is designed not only for students but for professionals at every walk of life.

Although this model sounds great on paper and may occasionally slip into your classroom experience (we hope!), you may have some questions. What exactly is the P.R.I.C.E Model? How is it important to you as a student and employee? Here are some ways that you can demonstrate the model in your own life and how it can be beneficial in your professional career:

What exactly is the P.R.I.C.E Model?

P.R.I.C.E stands for Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Caring and Engagement. These key qualities are meant to help guide you to becoming a leader in your community. Leadership sounds like a tantalizing goal, but it comes with complexities beyond just telling people what to do.

Even if you don’t have a leadership title, it does not mean that you aren’t a leader. In your role —either as a working professional, a family member or a student — you have the opportunity to be a role model to those around you. You should always try to give your best. You may wonder though: how do I showcase leadership in my role?

This is where the P.R.I.C.E. goals matter most.

Professionalism

When some people think of professionalism, they imagine people in business suits who act so rigid and formal. While this certainly IS professional, that isn’t exactly the kind that is highlighted in the P.R.I.C.E. model.

Professionalism is the conduct of a person — it means someone who holds themselves to a high standard. It can mean wearing formal clothes and giving presentations, but it also includes basic ideas such as doing your research on a project, showing up on time, using proper language, being a team player and getting involved in the community.

Respect

We are told as little kids to “respect your elders”. Generally, we take this to mean that we should listen, follow directions and not cause trouble. These principles still stand, but this is a very narrow view. Respect, at its core, is about treating other people how you want to be treated. It’s the Golden Rule. A leader may take this a step further and treat people better than themselves. They strive to prove to those around them that they genuinely care and are worthy of trust.

You can do this by learning more about the people around you and taking an interest in their personal lives. You make assign a task to a groupmate because they are more qualified, or you may pick up extra tasks because you know someone is having a tough week.

We are all different, so respect also means accepting diversity and taking steps to understand other viewpoints and perspectives. Ask questions! No matter what your role is, you can always learn from those around you.

Integrity

Be consistent! If you have gone out of your way to prove that you are professional and can be trusted, then you need to make sure that you are those things. Integrity exemplifies honesty and fairness. In this regard means that you need to practice what you preach. You cannot hold others to a standard that you do not hold yourself to.

Having integrity can also means that you are willing to admit and take responsibility for your mistakes.

Caring

It is hard not to care when you respect those around you, so these two go hand in hand! Within professionalism, it is okay to show a more empathetic side to yourself. You can become a better leader by encouraging and motivating your peers to achieve their goals. You will quickly see how being invested in the success of others can help you achieve your own goals!

Even in a position where you may not see people regularly, we still are working with other people. You can show that you care by doing your best, reaching out to your coworkers or peers, or putting that extra effort to help others out. It depends on your situation but simple acts of kindness such as a “thank you” can go a long way!

Engagement

Never undervalue the power of passion! You have probably worked with someone on a project that didn’t want to be there. Their lack of enthusiasm or motivation could have brought down the whole group even if the work is getting done. Your work could have felt lackluster even if you had tried your best.

You don’t have to pretend that you are super excited to do everything, but don’t bring down your group. Be inspired by the moment. Show that you are invested by communicating, actively contributing and being optimistic. Communicating and engagement is a two-way street, so you should try to ensure that others have the opportunity to contribute and comment. Your role as a leader can also be about inspiring others in your group.

The principles in the P.R.I.C.E. Model are not specifically geared towards just students or professionals. At every walk of life, you can apply these steps in different ways. So, what are you waiting for? Achieve leadership success by applying the P.R.I.C.E. Model in your life today!