We’ve all heard the phrase, “dress for the job you want”, but what about dressing for the job you currently have?
When examining dress codes, it’s unfair to assume that the most professionally dressed perform at higher levels than those who follow a more casual code. A business suit doesn’t necessarily guarantee the best performance, just as a “casual friday” look doesn’t guarantee a laid-back day at the office in terms of productivity. What really matters is the individual underneath the clothing, right?
As recruiters, we expect to interview professionally dressed candidates who are suited for the job they’re applying for. After meeting and talking with a candidate who is the exact fit for a position we’re filling, we may send him or her to the client’s location for an interview immediately. It helps to research the company website and position prior to applying – an appropriately dressed candidate is marketable and seemingly more qualified at first glance!
Researching the relationship between dress and work productivity yields disputing results; the real answer lies in who you ask, what field / industry he or she represents, and the specific roles staff members fill. Dress codes differ based on what makes sense for the company and its services. The following conclusions have been drawn from recent polls and surveys:
- more casual dress leads to a decrease in company enthusiasm and productivity
- tardiness and absenteeism increased at companies where dress-down policies were implemented
- sloppy or skimpy dress can be distracting to co-workers
- After implementing a casual dress code, the majority of senior managers across all industries are weary of going back to corporate dress for fear that it would be a step backward and hurt productivity
- casual dress improves employee morale
- low-key dress codes are well-received by employees and regarded as an added benefit.
- More casual dress codes are viewed as a perk because employees are able to spend less money on a professional wardrobe, which equals more money saved.
How do you feel about the effects of casual dress on work productivity?