A couple of weeks ago, I had a transatlantic flight–Las Vegas to London. I wore cat slippers.
This may seem in direct conflict with my general praise of dress codes, but they aren’t contradictory.
The purpose of a dress code is to do two things:
- Set a standard, so people know what you expect of them
- Demonstrate your company brand
So, considering I was taking an overnight flight surrounded by people in pajama pants, I figured that slippers were okay for the plane. (10/10 highly recommended.)
This is not in conflict with my support of new rules in the Missouri State Legislature that require women to “cover their shoulders by wearing a jacket like a blazer, cardigan or knit blazer.”
Here’s why it’s not sexist or oppressive or necessarily bad to have dress standards.
To keep reading, click here: Missouri Imposes New Dress Code on Women Representatives.
My thoughts on dress codes.
If you want a certain look, provide uniforms at company expense.
The clothing is clean and in good repair.
The things that have to be covered according to local law are covered.
Proper PPE for the job is worn.
Beyond that, there is no need for controlling what people wear.
what does an employer do, Gene, in your scenario when an employee shows up without a shirt? Management would likely say, “go home and put on a shirt, we didn’t write down that shirts are required, but they actually are.”
sounds a lot like a dress code
I agree dress codes need to be addressed before the first team member is brought through the door. Change is always hard and so many feel that their dress reflects them as an individual, while this is completely true, while you are at work you are an individual being paid to work at this organization, and therefore part of the team. Working in healthcare uniforms are predominantly what you see. Many healthcare systems have adopted the different color scrubs indicate what “branch” that team member serves, nursing wears blue, respiratory therapist wear green…etc…. This allows other team members to know exactly what your position is without straining to see a badge, which is helpful in stressful situations where a nurse will be more beneficial than one of the environmental specialists. It also gives patients and families a clear picture of your role when it may be difficult to be able to read a name badge. Uniforms provide no fuss getting ready in the morning and can largely save you money on professional attire.
Personally, I believe dress codes are important, they set the tone of the organization you work for. The dress code should reflect the culture and the values of the organization. I do endorse a day; most organizations select Fridays to be “casual” and allow a little more longitude and latitude on the dress code. However, Friday dress code needs to be clearly communicated on what is acceptable and what is not.
In today’s market employee retention is palpable, providing a forum for team members to assist in establishing a dress code could assist in buy in from the team. This would also increase adherence to the code. Of course, dress code incorporates the organizations branding, however it can also capture the culture of the organization and its unique team members. Just like any major league sports team, being identified as part of the team “feels good”, especially a winning one.