You've seen them worn by employees in many businesses – in grocery stores, at fast-food chains and cafes, to name a few places of work. Work Uniforms have been around since the Middle Ages, and they remain a staple in many industries across the world.
Today, workplaces are changing at an exceptional rate; where once they were governed by structure, today, there is a greater focus on flexibility within the workplace. One such hallmark of this shift is the switch to an open floor work layout. With the need to spark collaboration, innovation, wellness, and flexibility, companies are rebranding and doing away with office walls in favour of open spaces.
In today's age of flexible hours and employee personalization, is there still room for the traditional work uniform?
Why Employee Uniforms are Still Relevant
According to human resource experts, uniforms are still relevant in a changing workplace.
Uniforms are a source of branding and marketing for your business, and it helps establish a collective identity for your organization, whether it's the outright apparel or something as subtle as customized cufflinks for team members. When well-designed, a uniform influences customer perception. For example, teacher uniform design should give the wearer an air of both authority and approachability.
Uniforms can also help increase employee comfort and self-confidence. A worker wearing a functional and aesthetically pleasing outfit is more motivated to go to work compared to an employee forced to wear poorly designed attire.
For certain industries, a uniform plays a functional role. The proper attire helps them avoid hazards and injuries while at the worksite.
Should Your Workplace Require Uniforms?
A uniform may bring several benefits to the company, but is it necessary for your business? Take note of the nature of your business and the industry you are in. If your employees are not always seen by customers, then the uniform is not a critical part of the brand's image.
In this case, implementing a suitable dress code would perhaps be better for your business. When delineating a dress code policy, make sure that employees can wear clothes they are comfortable in while still meeting your expectations.
Designing Uniforms for Today's Workforce
If a company decides to implement employee uniforms, or if they currently have existing employee uniforms, they need to keep them current and updated. In today's modern workplace, a one-size-fits-all approach is not a good idea, and it's recommended to review the design every year to determine what's working and what's not, as well as to add pieces that keep the uniform fresh and stylish.
Communication is important to employees when rolling out new uniform designs. Involve them as early as the design stage by asking for ideas and asking them for feedback. First-time wearers of accessories, such as cufflinks, might also need a guide on how to wear them. Also, make it a point to design uniforms in different fits to cater to a majority of workers.
If possible, give your employees leeway for personalization. Roll out uniforms in different styles so employees can choose what to wear based on their preference.
Despite the changes in today's workplace, employee uniforms continue to be relevant. They reflect the changing market and, when well-designed, motivate employees and get your brand message across. Like any element of branding and marketing, the uniform design must be well thought out so that workers can create a good first impression and do their jobs efficiently.
