I was recently asked by a client how to remain professional in a contentious situation. Here is something I wrote a long time ago that still applies:
A good model for women leaders to study is the aristocratic Dr. Maya Angelou. Her calm, poised, well-spoken personality is known and beloved by many as a national treasure.
Dr. Angelou is honorable but not prudish.
She is classy, but knows how (and when) to sling her slang.
She would never indulge in a public catfight, bitter put-down, political manipulation or game of one-upmanship. She once said her self-worth would not permit such actions - neither should yours.
Dr. Angelou leads very simply by her words and the sterling example of her inherent and unshakable self-dignity.
Cultivate that within you that is respectful, self-aware, classy, dignified and grounded in bedrock, and you will have all the professional demeanor you will ever need.