TGIF (Thank goodness it’s Friday)! You’ve survived yet another week of work and thanks to your company’s Casual Friday policy; it’s time to put away those ties and heels.
But just because your company loosens their work attire requirements on Fridays, it doesn’t mean you should take casual Fridays ‘too casually’. Regardless of the company or industry you’re in, it will never be okay to show up in distressed jeans, flip flops or graphic tees. You’re not a fan boy/girl heading to a concert; you’re going to work and should still project professionalism.
Casual Fridays that become ‘too casual’ can quickly turn into an HR issue. Here are some tips for employers to keep Causal Fridays from going too far.
1. Implement a policy. HR or management should define and implement a policy for Casual Friday dress code. What is deemed appropriate or inappropriate and the consequences for not following the rules should be communicated to employees. To ensure there are no misconceptions, include a bulleted list of examples of appropriate and inappropriate articles of clothing.
2. Set an example. If upper management does not show up for work with a professional appearance, why would anyone else? People are aware of their surroundings and if they see their bosses dressed overly casual on Fridays, they will follow suit. That old saying, “Do as I say, not as I do,” will never work, so set an example for your employees.
3. Give compliments. Positive reinforcement resonates with people. If you compliment an employee on their attire and specifically acknowledge what it is that they are wearing that you admire, they will make it a habit. Saying something as simple as, “Dan, I love that blazer, it is so professional,” will give your employee a positive reputation they will feel the need to live up to.
Setting forth policies and regulating your company’s Casual Friday policy will avert any HR issues from arising.
For more information on managing your company’s Causal Friday policy, please reach out to Genesis HR Solutions at AskUs@genesishrsolutions.com or 800-367-8367.
Genesis HR Solutions is the premier PEO provider for Massachusetts based businesses.
