Often, there is no real simple answer as to appearance and dress for the new employee. Some companies or organizations have uniforms or dress codes.

Many organizations say just about anything is okay, but not jeans. Others say business casual is expected, but on Fridays they allow casual dress.

Some organizations say nothing. Maybe they expect nothing. Or when the employee gets out of the (undefined) box, the boss will say something to the employee. (“Your uniform is dirty, please get it cleaned and pressed!”)

Background

Working in a factory requires one type of dress. Working at a restaurant requires another. Working outdoors requires still another. Working in an office calls for yet another.

Some insightful observations:

* I once heard a senior VP say, “Here comes another one of those ‘look good, smell good’ guys—looks sharp.”

This was the first impression made, and a very good one. Even without any mention of position or job performance, the new person was recognized in a very positive way.

* In our Mexico operation, it was recognized that the ladies working in the plant always looked like a million bucks (maybe pesos) even though they were working on the assembly line. The job at the plant provided them work, but also a daily social opportunity. They wanted to, and did, look great. The guys also improved their appearance—wonder why?

* You don’t know when the boss is going to call you into his office, to maybe meet his boss or a customer. This opportunity could come any day. That opportunity needs to be met by looking sharp.

* At the end of the day, George was tired—clothes were dirty, George was dirty, and he didn’t smell so good. This was the nature of his job. However, at the beginning of the next day, George was ready— clean George, clean clothes, and George smelled good.

* When Ernie came for the job interview, he wore a new suit, white shirt, sharp red tie, and his shoes were shined. He walked in with a smile on his face even though, I knew, he was very nervous. That first impression was exceptional, a positive impression even before he spoke his first word.

* Harriet once commented, “She dresses more like a boss every day even though she isn’t—yet! All things being equal, she deserves and will get that next promotion.”

And she did!

Best Practice

It is generally best to overdress than underdress in your work environment. Looking good and smelling good for your fellow workers, the boss, customers, and yourself helps prepare you for that next opportunity.