Most workplaces have some kind of dress code. But have you ever thought of implementing actual uniforms? Here are some benefits you might want to consider.
An air of professionalism
You only get one chance at a first impression. Increase your chances of winning new customers by implementing professional attire in all your business locations. Take some time to design a uniform that fits in well with your branding. Uniforms can be great tools for standing out from competitors in the area. They are a statement of your position in the market. Consult both your branding strategists and the employees themselves. After all, if your workers feel uncomfortable or awkward, it will show in the client interactions, and defeat the original purpose.
Passive advertisement
This is usually a bonus benefit, but in some industries, it can take center stage. Retail and food service are such instances. Uniforms in these areas of business often feature a prominent logo or specific color schemes. The point of such custom uniforms is to underline that each employee is the face of the business. It has a psychological effect on both workers and customers. Employees try harder to portray the business in a good light, and customers are more likely to remember the brand name and spread the word.
A sense of trustworthiness
Some lines of business demand a relationship of trust between the service provider and the client. Common examples include lawyers, financiers, and mechanics. However, this also applies to services we don’t really think of as “businesses”. Medical institutions are a prime example. Would you trust a doctor who worked in jeans and a lumberjack shirt? A clinic should buy scrubs for everyday use (at least tops). This automatically implies workplace hygiene and medical conscientiousness. Doctors and nurses in uniforms also radiate a sense of credibility and pride in their institution. This translates to a higher competence. The implied line of thinking is “If this clinic has the time and resources to care about matching uniforms, then they obviously have the time and resources for good equipment and staff training. They can back up their branding with quality care.”
An atmosphere of unity
Workplaces can feel factitious, especially if there are several teams that are not in direct contact. A uniform appearance between departments promotes unity. It is a very obvious signal that “We’re all playing for the same team here!” A feeling of unity is important because it fosters healthier human relationships. It indirectly contributes to a wholesome atmosphere and healthier workplace culture. This is essential when it comes to bottom-up communication. In large offices or multi-level companies, new or lower-ranked employees might feel intimidated. They may hesitate to approach their seniors or higher-ups with issues or ideas. This negatively impacts productivity, innovation, and overall efficiency. If workwear is the same regardless of position, it brings the management closer to the workers. It signals that everyone shares a platform. Higher-ups become implicitly more approachable, communication flourishes, and productivity improves.
Worker and onlooker safety
Finally, clothes in certain industries are literal safety equipment. Industrial and trade uniforms protect workers from injuries, fire, electrical shocks, chemical spills, toxins, etc. In some workplaces, they also contribute to public safety. Uniforms stand out. This is critical to firefighters, rangers, and the like. Their uniforms protect them from the specific hazards of their work while making them easily identifiable to the endangered public and colleagues alike.
Uniforms improve branding, client retention, workplace relations, and even safety. Invest in them, no matter your industry, and reap the many benefits for your business.
