COOL HEADS IN HOT WEATHER: GOOD JUDGMENT ON GETTING DRESSED FOR WORK
As the weather gets hotter – and cultural norms are shifting waistlines down and shirt hems up so that the “midriff” now means everything from below the hip bone to above the diaphragm – it’s important to distinguish between your summer wardrobe and dressing for success, as rarely the twain shall meet.
Minto Says:
Let’s start by saying we’re talking about mainstream, white collar careers here – no necessarily corporate, but decidedly closer to the classic boardroom chair than the lifeguard perch at Kits beach. I don’t want to get letters from bartenders, servers, tour guides or recreation leaders on this – I know you need to wear more summery clothing for work. It’s the rest of us who don’t.
I think I’ll direct my comments to the men out there. Guys: no shorts, no exceptions. Not walking shorts. Not Bermuda shorts. Just say no to putting your knees on display, okay? If you’re not in Hawaii, there really is no context for a Hawaiin shirt. I’m not sure where men got the idea that a flowered shirt could be worn to “dress up” a pair of khakis, but it was a bad idea in the 70s and it just hasn’t gotten any better. And if what you are wearing could be worn to a barbecue, either go to a barbecue and call in sick or go change. I like a good golf shirt as much as the next guy – I just don’t hire someone wearing a golf shirt if the next guy is smart and respectful enough to wear a dress shirt and tie.
Business is business and when you come to work you should come dressed to play the work game. Attending the office in cotton pants and a short-sleeved shirt, even one from a strong brand like Mexx or Banana Republic, says “I’m not serious.” It makes about as much sense as playing rugby in a double-breasted navy pinstripe – you wouldn’t do one, so why do you do the other? You’ll complain that it’s hot out and your suit doesn’t breathe. I say, “No problem. This is just your life we’re talking about. If you can’t double up on the Mennen speed stick and wear a jacket for an hour or two to launch your career, thanks for letting me get a peek at your work ethic right up front. Helps in my decision-making.”
Want to advance in your career? Suit up.
Minto Roy
President
CareersToday Canada
www.careerstodaycanada.com
www.mintoroy.net