Uniforms help build your Business Brand’s Presence and Visibility, so making a great first impression is crucial.
Potential client’s first and foremost method of evaluation is less about mentality and more to do with ‘What they See’ …i.e. your Appearance.
While communication style and professionalism play an important role in positioning your business in the minds of your clients, never forget that you are also being judged on how you look.
The reality is that we live in a competitive business environment, and the importance of Company Branding trickles right down to your staff. Your brand is key to building trust and confidence with your market.
Knowing where to start in building your uniform brand can be challenging as there are several elements involved and the process can take some time.
Below are some great tips to help ensure your staff’s appearances enhance rather than hinder your brand.
- Ensure more than one fit is available to them, … a slim fit and a loose fit.
- With shirting, having more than one sleeve option available is also important. For example, short sleeves may not be everyone’s preferred sleeve.
- Have flexible options, such as a choice of pockets or no pocket on shirts and bottoms to accommodate individual’s needs.
- Ensure the length of garments can be altered or custom-ordered. This is particularly common with trousers and long sleeve shirts.
- Where possible, give your team an opportunity to get fitted or try on a garment before ordering. Working off a size guide can sometimes be misleading.
- Acquire some knowledge of the culture of your industry and the appropriate dress code that will be reflected in the uniform branding.
Where most companies fall short is by diving headfirst into buying the first uniform they see, without asking some key questions.
The following questions are essential before shopping for a uniform.
Where and When will it be worn?
Make sure you know when the uniform will be worn and where. For example, is it for every day, four days a week or for conferences or events?
What are your Objectives with the Uniform?
What are you trying to convey? This is very important as the intention and objectives will determine the style of uniform you choose.
What do you want it to look like?
Be very clear on your Branding Objectives so that the uniform style and colours you choose reflects your company message clearly.
What is your budget per person and how will this be funded?
This is a big one! The sky is the limit in terms of what you spend and if the budget isn’t bedded down from the beginning, the brief will be too vast and cause confusion.
Is it compulsory for all staff? Who will wear the uniform?Decide upfront if the uniform is to be worn by all staff and if it is compulsory.
Some companies like to create ‘complimenting looks’ for different divisions so that the company brand is ‘uniform’.