Dress code. You’re probably familiar with the idea from some activity throughout your life. Perhaps you were in a sport where you had to wear a certain uniform or maybe your school enforced certain dress standards. Did you know that the proper dress code can be crucial to the success of a business? Not only is it important to first impressions of customers and clients, but it is also key to maintaining proper employee attitudes. This article explains the reasons for dress code importance and suggests what you should implement in your workplace!
The Human Equation reveals…
First impressions of your workplace, and your employees, can have a significant impact on the success of your business. Image may not be everything, but it does speak volumes about your organization’s values, achievements, work ethic, and professionalism. In fact, approximately 55 percent of first impressions are based on overall appearance, and people often decide whether or not they like you, and will do business with you, within 10 seconds of a first encounter. What does your workplace say about you?
Regardless of the industry, every business can project a professional image and turn a first impression into increased profits and growth. This article presents information on how to assess and improve your business image, focusing on two main areas: 1) dress code and personal appearance and 2) workstations and overall workplace conditions.
it is essential that every company create and enforce a policy that outlines an appropriate standard of dress and grooming. Make compliance mandatory, and update and redistribute the policy as trends or company culture changes.
Whether your type of business warrants business suits, uniforms, or khakis, your dress code policy should include a statement such as:
ABC COMPANY expects that each employee’s dress, personal appearance, and personal hygiene project a professional image. Good grooming and appropriate dress inspire customer confidence and help to create a pleasant work environment for all. We ask that you observe and practice conservative good taste in dress and appearance, and that you keep in mind you are representing the company at all times.
Your policy should go on to explain what type of dress is acceptable, such as in the statement below:
Professional business attire is appropriate Monday through Friday, during business hours. You are expected to present an authoritative, conservative, and competent image. Professional business attire includes business suits and polished shoes. It does not include casual attire in any manner, such as blue jeans, cotton leggings, shorts, sandals, sneakers, sundresses, lycra or spandex clothing, or t-shirts.
The organization has a right to be clear about what an employee can and cannot wear to work, so you may even decide to create an explicit dress chart.
| Acceptable Attire For Men | Acceptable Attire For Women |
| Business suits | Business suits, dress suits |
| Pleated dress slacks and no-iron pants | Pleated dress slacks and no-iron pants |
| Lightweight blazers worn over fitted, button-down shirts in solid colors | Lightweight blazers worn over fitted, button-down shirts or blouses |
| Ties with simple patterns and neutral or toned-down colors | Elegant sweater sets |
| Cuff links | Hosiery, not including patterned tights, and simple, elegant jewelry |
| Polished shoes | Polished shoes |
Get the full story at The Human Equation!
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