Implementing a Conservative Business Dress Policy Patricia Sykes Consultant April 3, 2008 for MetroBank SPL Strategic Solutions Management Consulting and Training
Consultant On Call for You SPL Strategic Solutions Management Consulting and Training Patricia Sykes (fax) View this presentation at Patricia Sykes (fax) View this presentation at
Trend from Casual Back to Conservative Business Attire
Rapid Growth of Business Casual Dress During 1990s Companies with dress-down days % 95% Extent casual dress allowed 72% One day 40% Every day
Downside of Dressing Down Relaxed manners, morals, and productivity Increased on-the-job flirting, harassment, tardiness, and absenteeism Confusion over appropriate casual dress resulting from unclear dress- down policies
The Way Back to Conservative Business Dress Slowing economy linked to overall lack of professionalism Formal dress code reinstated in the Bush White House Many large businesses returning to formal business attire Fewer companies offer casual dress policies
Analysis of Conservative Business Dress Improved attitudes Increased productivity Enhanced image Greater versatility Increased respect for women and minorities Additional wardrobe expenditures Advantages Disadvantages
Isn’t a guess with business professional dress
Clear Policy Sets Rule for Acceptable Dress In writing andwelldistributed In agreement With Title VII of Civil Rights Simple but specific
Brooks Bro. Dayton Hudson Corp. Neiman Marcus Men’s Wear- house Sources of Information
Guidelines for Successful Implementation Access sources provided and consider consultant options Appoint an employee committee to recommend implementation guidelines Consider phasing the policy to allow employees to adjust wardrobes for full implementation Evaluate the success of the program and make needed changes
Consultant On Call for You View this presentation at metrobank Patricia Sykes (fax) SPL Strategic Solutions Management Consulting and Training