Workplace uniforms can seem like a fantastic idea. For one, branded clothing can go a long way towards expanding marketing. That’s before you consider that uniforms can help eliminate issues like discrimination by keeping everyone on equal footing.
Yet, many managers find their uniform policies fail to reach these highs. For the most part, this happens when attempts to implement uniform are approached in the wrong ways. Far from bringing the benefits mentioned, a poor policy can lead to frustrations and serious issues, including the dissatisfaction of entire teams.
If your uniform policy seems to be unraveling right now, then, it’s possible you’ve fallen foul to mistakes. The good news is that solving these is often easier than you’d expect. The bad news is that you have to work out what you’re doing wrong before you can get uniforms right. Luckily, we’re here to undress some of the most common uniform policy mistakes so you don’t have to.
Your Uniforms Are Uncomfortable
Uncomfortable uniforms have to be the #1 employee uniform complaint. This should be obvious given that comfort is vital for allowing your team to be productive. Still, many managers invest in stiff polo necks or non breathable materials. Before they know, their team both hate their uniforms and produce less work. If you suspect this to be the case in your workplace, consider potential comfort issues your team could be having. Make sure everything from material to sizing and cuts are the best quality possible. Then, try wearing one yourself and see if you feel good. If the answer is no, then is it any wonder your team isn’t 100% behind your uniform efforts?
You’re Turning Your Team into Walking Billboards
The advertorial benefits of uniforms are one of the main reasons for implementing them. Yet, you have to hold back a little. Your employees are people, after all, and turning them into walking billboards is sure to push even your best over the edge. Let’s face it; excessive advertising can feel demeaning. Instead, stay subtle but efficient. Use one logo in a prime position to get the best with less. You could even keep uniforms blank, and just invest in a custom buckle so you can still enjoy advertising. Whatever you do; don’t hand out uniforms which are smothered in advertising on every side. Talk about embarrassing.
Your Uniform Takes Too Long to Put On
Time taken is another significant uniform complaint. As much as one set uniform can save your team time choosing outfits, you do need to consider how long a uniform takes to put on. Bear in mind that this is time your employees aren’t paid for. If they have to tackle multiple layers, ties, and complicated set-ups, they’re soon going to lose patience. To make sure that doesn’t happen, you would be best off keeping uniforms as simple as possible moving forward. The faster your team can get dressed, the better chance you have of a uniform policy everyone can get along with.
