When beginning my trucking business years ago, I determined that my work apparel/uniform would be neutral.

In business, it’s very important when working with customers and employees to dress in a professional manner. My reasons for playing it “neutral” stem from the fact that we all know negatives come our way whether we want them or not. It’s my practice to review what I’m planning on wearing as to not offend anyone. You may have the best of intentions by wearing your favorite ball cap, t-shirt or jacket; however someone else may take a dislike to your attire. You don’t want that person to be your customer, employee the public or law enforcement.

 

On my personal time or weekends, I feel it’s appropriate to wear my favorite teams on my clothing. While at work, however I feel it’s a very different story all together. My goal is to attain business relationships with those around me and if I wear something which offends him/her, I may not like the outcome. My items of things I won’t wear include apparel with logos, brands, sport teams, offensive statements etc… some people are extremely serious about their sports teams and I wouldn’t want to aggravate someone or ruin the day by presenting a different view. I try to put myself in my customers “shoes” and what my reaction would be if they showed up at my place of business displaying an opposing team or political statement. What if it would offend my wife, child or someone in my office?

 

If you ask yourself some of these questions, you can see how your dressing may impact you or someone else. I always dress professionally as I wouldn’t want to plant any seeds of negativity unnecessarily.

Comments (2)

Henry Albert

Henry Albert is the owner of Albert Transport, Inc., based in Statesville, NC. Before participating in the "Slice of Life" program, Albert drove a 2001 Freightliner Century Class S/T™, and will use his Cascadia for general freight and a dry van trailer. Albert, who has been a trucker since 1983, was recognized by Overdrive as its 2007 Trucker of the Year.

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You don't need "conversation pieces" plastered on your clothing. Dressing professionally and neutral provides the opportunity for the customer to 1) Remember that you dressed professionally, and; 2) if the customer wants to speak to you they will and you can professionally manage the conversation. If the person doesn't want to speak to you at least you provided the opportunity to provide a great experience by dressing professionally, indicating that you have pride, accept responsibility, have respect and will handle their freight and their customers in the same manner.

February 24, 2013 17:41:31 PM

This reminds me of how my sister always states on touchy issues, "I'm neutral like Switzerland". It is important to remember that as a business we are there to provide a service, not so much an opinion. When wearing such apparel, it may not seem as though we are doing so, but inadvertently it is speaking volumes for you. My brother-in-law once helped me realize how important these kinds of things were in business, being a successful business owner himself. It was on the issue of sending holiday cards to his clients. I asked why he did not send out cards that said "Merry Christmas” or "Happy Holidays"? He answered by saying that he may have clients who do not celebrate the same holidays, or even any holidays at all. In sending out "Season's Greetings" cards, he made sure not to offend anyone, while still wishing well to all. Certain steps must be taken such as the cards and uniforms, to ensure as a business owner, that we are not offensive or make those who we provide services to uncomfortable.

January 18, 2013 22:38:04 PM