Key Factors to Consider When Designing a Business Uniform
What’s the first thing a customer sees when he walks into your place of business? Hopefully a member of your staff is offering a smile and a warm welcome. But how is that personal identified as a member of your staff? By the uniform he’s wearing.
Some companies have very strict uniform codes while others are a little looser. At the end of the day, though, having a uniform code can be incredibly beneficial to your business and the way it is viewed by the public.
Branding and Image
Let’s say you walk into a retail store and you need to find a staff member. You scan the store and you see a whole bunch of people in jeans, colored t-shirts, hoodies, and various outfits. One is crouched near a shelf, unloading a box, but he really doesn’t look any different than the other customers you see. Is he a staff member? Are you willing to walk up to him and ask?
Not having a uniform has an impact on your image by making your atmosphere look disorganized and sloppy. Even a simple polo shirt with your company logo would be better than nothing, as it makes it easier for customers to find help. Your image, of course, has a direct impact on your brand. When people see your logo you don’t want them to say, “I can never find anyone to help me when I walk into that store.” You staff will look professional, feel professional, and act professional.
Staff Considerations
The clothes we wear are often an indicator of our social status or affiliations and this mindset translates into the workplace. Matched uniforms for the business or for different departments will help your employees feel as though they are united and part of a team. Maybe your managers all wear suits and ties while your retail staff wears matching button-down shirts, polos, or t-shirts with the company logo.
Colors and Logos
You will, of course, need to reconsider your logo and color choices. You do not have to simply put your corporate logo on your uniform pieces. Design something that matches your brand while remaining unique so that your employees stand out and add additional impact to your brand. Make sure your uniform logo and color choices stand out so that your employees don’t blend in with your customer base.
Embroidered Names
We caution you to carefully consider whether or not you want employee names embroidered or printed on your uniforms. If you have a close-knit team that’s been loyal to you for a long time, it may be a nice add-on. If you have a high employee turn-over rate, you’re going to find personalized shirts can become very expensive.
Carefully consider both your brand and the needs of your employees as you plan your business uniform. And please feel free to give us a call if you aren’t sure what direction to head in. We’ve been outfitting businesses with uniforms, hats, t-shirts and promotional materials for years and we’d be glad to help you plan your next change in attire.