Are Workplace Uniforms Obsolete?

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A recent study from two professors in the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University found that people wearing lab coats are generally more careful and attentive. Testing two groups, one with lab coats and one without, the two professors found that those wearing lab coats had increased attention compared to those who did not.

The professors then gave two new groups white coats, describing one group’s coats to them as painters smocks and the other as doctors lab coats. They found those who had been given the “lab coats” had increased sustained attention compared to those who were wearing “painter’s smocks".

What people wear while they work affects how they work. 

First Impression

First impressions matter whether it be in your business or personal life. This may be obvious, but it's all too often overlooked in the workplace. Uniforms allow your team to be easily recognizable, professional looking, and most importantly, trusted.

Unite the Team

Uniforms help unify a workplace. Whether employees like the uniform, or each other for that matter, doesn't really make a difference. When looking around the workplace, they're apt to see someone like them; and similarly, they're recognized as a team by outsiders. This familiarity and perception create a sense of oneness. Workers who function as a cohesive unit are more productive, communicate better, and tend to enjoy the work they do more than those who are disorganized.

Pride

Uniforms can instill a certain sense of confidence in employees who wear them. They act as a badge that is earned and, depending on the position of the employee, demand a certain amount of respect. For example, one is typically more respectful to a group of uniformed police officers than to a group of assorted militiamen. The pride that comes from wearing a uniform is directly correlated with the confidence an employee has in their employer.

Employees who think little of or look down on their employers typically will shun uniforms or dread wearing them while on the job. Those who take pride in what they tend to enjoy wearing their uniform and are proud to display their employers logo even while off the clock.

Brand Awareness

As the 'personality' of your company, your brand is what you put out, and what consumers perceive. Aside from the aforementioned benefits, uniforms are basically marketing your business. Gone are the days of cotton polos as your only option, let your uniforms reflect your brand! There are literally thousands of options. Sporting goods retailer? Go for athleisure wear. Fast food? Ditch the visor for some modern headwear. Trendy tech start-up? Give your team a variety of options to let them express their style.

Equality

Similar uniforms put employees of equal status on equal footing. Differences in economic standing is less obvious when everyone has the same clothing. Additionally, employees who know exactly what they will be wearing to work won’t have to stress out over picking an outfit.

Having a slightly different uniform for managers and those in positions of power also makes it clear that they are in charge. Even if it’s just a collared shirt compared to a T-shirt the difference in levels of authority can be clearly seen.

Ultimately, whether or not to implement uniforms in the workplace is up to you. Sometimes it makes sense, sometimes it doesn't. But don't make the decision based on the uniform itself, because these days you're no longer limited with your options. If you think uniforms could improve your business, let us help you find your perfect solutions!

-The SewOn Team

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