fbpx

the dresscode debate

September 25th 2019

One of the organisations I work with has just started a conversation about dresscode.  And interestingly, while part of the chat was about what is acceptable attire and what isn’t, the other more interesting part of the conversation was actually about whether the organisation should even be enforcing dresscode standards. Is it even their place to dictate how someone should dress?  Is that driving conformity at the expense of individuality?  Is it restricting the ability for someone to express themselves?

Archie as Bumble Bee

It’s an interesting debate, that made me think about Archie, my 5 year old who started school in May.  He is attending a primary school that doesn’t have a uniform, which allows him the freedom to dress however he wishes, every, single, day. And so he does.  He fulfills his love of superhero dress up by alternating between Spider-Man, Superman, Batman and Bumble Bee the Transformer.  And to be honest, I don’t think his transition to school would’ve been as smooth if he’d be forced to wear “normal” clothes every day.  Lycra onesies are Archie’s way of feeling comfortable.

And I don’t think the workplace is any different.  Being comfortable allows individuals to flourish, to excel, to contribute, which ultimately increases engagement.   There are also enormous diversity benefits that come from allowing individuals to express themselves in the workplace.

But of course, there is a caveat to all this.  A Batman onesie isn’t appropriate everywhere, and relaxing a dresscode is reliant on employees taking pride in their appearance and having an inherent understanding of what is acceptable in the workplace. 

So if you’re not restricted by health & safety or brand guidelines dictating a uniform must be worn, then why not give it a go.  Step back from a specified dresscode, and allow your employees to choose their wardrobe, and hope they choose wisely!

Tags:

A very professional approach and she understands our business needs

Nicki has assisted us in various different areas of hr and recruitment, always with successful outcomes. A very professional approach and she understands our business needs.

Charlotte Clapcott, Owner - Hopscotch Childcare Centre

Nicki provides amazing service!!

Nicki provides amazing service!!

Niki Needham, everypennycounts

…professional manner, can do attitude & attention to every detail

Thank you very much for your super efficient service. I am truly impressed with everything about eight73 consulting. In particular your professional manner, can do attitude & attention to every detail. You heard everything we needed and attended to it without any delay. I would not hesitate in recommending you.

Gretta Withers, Owner - River Run

Nicki is an absolute rockstar who provides excellent service in so many areas

We love using the team at eight73!!! Nicki is an absolute rockstar who provides excellent service in so many areas and love that we can support another local business in our community.

Adele Phillips, Owner - Pumpn

… really easy to work with

I have worked closely with Nicki, she is really easy to work with and works with me closely when needed, makes herself available anytime, responds in a timely manner. I am absolutely comforted knowing I can flick of an email anytime with a question or more and she is all knowledgeable and ready. And absolutely affordable!

Frances Ferguson

…best decision I made in dealing with a recent HR issue

Seeking advice from Nicki was the best decision I made in dealing with a recent HR issue. I felt confident I was complying with best practice and totally supported throughout the process. Can’t recommend eight73 highly enough!

Maria Bradshaw, Manager - Taupo Women's Refuge

It’s clear that the team at eight73 consulting really know their stuff

It’s clear that the team at eight73 consulting really know their stuff, and that takes the stress right out of the processes of job applications and interviews – for both employers and applicants. Thank you Kylie and team!

Molly McGrath, job seeker