SHOULD COMPANIES HAVE A DRESS CODE FOR EMPLOYEES?



Organizations pretend to be more informal and modern at one side and at the same time they implement dress code. The two things look contradictory. However, an organization that defines an unambiguous dress code in the HR policy should not be considered old-fashioned and rigid. Dress codes are implemented because of several reasons by employers.

employees-dress-code

Those who are in favor of dress codes have some sound logic:

  • It carries the corporate image: When all employees follow the dress code, it creates a corporate image. Customers, clients, and business associates build a perception about the work culture and philosophy of the company.
  • It is good from the safety perspective: In some organizations, the dress code is implemented with the intention of employee safety. In such case, employers issue strict guidelines about the dress code. For example, in a work environment with heavy machinery people should not wear oversized outfits because they are prone to accidents.
  • It creates a healthy work environment: Well, it is a fact that a dress code enhances the work environment and makes people feels good about it. Unshaved faces, torn or faded jeans and casual round-neck T-shirts may suit an advertising agency, but certainly not in a bank or hotel.  People in customer-facing profiles are supposed to be neat and tidy.

Those who are not on with the dress code also have their reasons:

However, there are many people who criticize the dress code and consider it a hindrance for the rights of employees. They feel that there is no relation of creativity, zeal and dedication to the dress code. Rather, people work with full concentration when they are allowed to wear the outfit they feel comfortable.  It makes them involves with their work more than anything else.

Well, whether a company should follow the dress code or not depends on the opinion of the employees. If a majority of them feel it is irrelevant and impractical, then there is no sense in implementing it against the wish of them. It will create negativity and force people to retaliate. It should be implemented when there is no opposition to it by and large.

When a dress code is implemented with a proper reasoning and rationale, people understand the inherent intention. They know that company wants to make the work environment healthier and happier.  In such case, there is a full cooperation and support to the same by employees. HR plays a pivotal role in creating a positive atmosphere about it.

Many people including Maulik Shah, director of premium uniform manufacturer Atlas Infiniti, feel the dress code or uniform actually saves time because you don’t have to spend time thinking about what to wear!

And so does Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook ðŸ™‚ http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/facebook/11217273/Facebooks-Mark-Zuckerberg-Why-I-wear-the-same-T-shirt-every-day.html