Four ways workplace uniforms improve business – even during Covid

d during internal video meetings or strategic marketing and sales meetings? Even more importantly, what are they wearing when meeting clients or potential clients via video call? It has never been more important to ensure consistency and cohesiveness as a company, regardless of whether the head office has now become a Zoom meeting room or not. It is more important than ever that your team looks and feels united, confident, and in charge. Nearly every aspect of our jobs – from the daily meetings, to the tools we use, to the clothes we wear – has an impact on our level of engagement. Uniforms are a key piece of the engagement puzzle, reminding members that they are part of a team. They reinforce what the team represents and also play a major role in determining each individual employee’s sense of pride and satisfaction in their work. Uniforms are worn across multiple industries, from retail uniforms that help customers identify staff members, to medical uniforms designed to be practical and hygienic. Corporate uniforms can serve different purposes in different situations, but here are some common benefits shared by all: Team uniforms promote your brand If your corporate clothing features your brand logo, or even your brand colours, you’re building recognition every time someone sees an employee wearing it and in a video call it stands out even more. Consider it free advertising and something that can reinforce your brand plan and objectives in the work environment. Thousands of dollars are spent each year on marketing and branding in stores, trying to communicate messaging. Uniforms are an economical dual service marketing function that benefits and motivates your employees while also telling your brand story to all who encounter someone wearing it. Team uniforms promote equality Uniforms are a great equaliser. Your staff may occupy different levels in the chain of command, but when they are all dressed in the same uniform, there is a greater sense of team spirit. A uniform provides a level of comfort and structure, particularly through these times, when they are not as exposed to the brand DNA and are likely to feel a little removed from your business. Team uniforms promote loyalty When your employees associate themselves with your brand, they are more likely to feel positively about it. When they wear your uniform or branded accessories, they become brand ambassadors. A company uniform defines what you are about as a business and ensures that your team is on the same page. Team members will wake up each day and be reminded, when getting dressed, whom they work for and what that represents. A good uniform will ensure employees are excited and motivated to get dressed, creating a feeling of team spirit and a sense of belonging when, in today’s times, it is easy to feel isolated and alone. Team uniforms boost performance and sales In business, effective branding can make you appear more approachable, professional, and confident, and can often make or break sales opportunities. Winning business is tougher today than ever, and the company that takes the time to ensure their staff uniform represents the best version of their brand, culture, and purpose is more likely to get ahead in sales and performance and be market leaders in its field. If done correctly, a uniform will ensure your team members look, feel, and act the part, and will ensure clients are confident, comfortable, and proud to be associated with your brand. There is without doubt a correlation between performance and dress. A lazy outfit equals lazy output, equals lazy impression. Staff who take pride in their dress sense take pride in their work. An outfit can speak a thousand words and when repeated correctly by each employee, the message to clients and the public is priceless.