How to dress according to company culture
How to dress according to company culture
Companies have different cultures depending on the industry they’re in and the type of people they employ and serve. Understanding the company’s culture is important, especially when it comes to its dress code.
You can always ask someone what the dress code is at the company, or simply observe the people that walk in and out of the building.
Here’s how to fit in with the company’s dress code:
- Suiting up for the corporate world
If you’re starting a new career in the corporate world, let’s say in the financial services industry, then you’ll probably find that most employees wear collared shirts, suits and ties. Ladies are usually kitted out in suits and pencil skirts.
Employees in the financial services industry often deal with peoples’ money – a lot of money. This means they need to represent the company in a professional manner. The higher up the ladder, the fancier the suits get.
Students moving into the corporate world have to adapt from a chilled and relaxed campus environment to a stiff and formal setting. In the beginning, it can be difficult to get comfortable in your formal threads, but hang in there, you will get used to it.
As a new employee in this corporate environment, you might struggle to find clothes that match the requirements of the job. Don’t stress. Buy a few shirts and formal bottoms that you can rotate during the week and then buy an additional outfit or two every month until you’ve built up a suitable wardrobe.
- Dressing down for the creative industry
If you find yourself moving into a less formal industry, like advertising or graphic design, your skinny jeans and hipster look might be exactly what you need.
You’ll only need to wear formal wear when you go see clients. If you’re sitting behind a desk writing adverts and designing posters for most of the day, then jeans and a t-shirt should be fine.
Even in the creative arena, it’s important to know what the company requires from its employees in terms of dress code. If you’re not sure, dress smart-casual. Men can wear jeans with a tucked-in shirt and a pair of smart shoes. Ladies can get away with a little more. You can try the jeans and shirt combo or even consider a smart skirt and t-shirt. Just make sure the skirt isn’t too short and the top too revealing. This way, you’ll look professional and cool at the same time.
- Always dress for success
Whether you’re in a formal or semi-formal environment, you need to make sure that you’re always well presented. Keep your clothes neat, tidy and clean. Nobody wants to work with a slob. If you can’t afford the most expensive clothes, don’t worry, as long as you’re presentable, you’ll be fine.
Presenting yourself professionally will earn respect as long as the quality of the work you produce is also of good standards.