Professionalism refers to activities that comply with the legislation and regulations concerning the field and the ethical principles of the profession and the field. Those seeking guidance must be able to trust that the persons providing these services have the necessary knowledge and professional skills and that they comply with appropriate ethical principles. Professionalism covers competency through which the career professional positions and evaluates their activities and renews their work and operating environment.

This area of expertise lays the foundation for guidance work. It outlines competency areas that are integrated into practical guidance work. Based on the competency descriptions, it is possible to determine the minimum requirements for guidance work in accordance with one's core task and local operating conditions, either in a public sector or as a private service provider.

Professionalism includes ethical competency, theory- and research-based competency, reflective competency, communication and interaction competency, and digital competency.