2020 has certainly been a year for the history books thanks to COVID-19 the retail sector has been one of the hardest hit due the various state lockdowns. As we brace ourselves for the busy pre-Christmas holiday season, it’s time to think about capturing customers as competition for sales heats up. People see you before they hear you and as society adapts to our new normal, they are looking at the world differently and possibly looking at your business with fresh eyes for the first time.
me. What your team wears matters as it really sets the tone for the experience one can expect when dealing with your brand. It also reassures your clients that pandemic or no pandemic you know what you are doing, you are professional, on trend and visually appealing.
Every successful retail business knows how we look from the outside is what will drive foot traffic into the business. Old and dated uniforms insinuate you are not a successful enterprise and will not make you look any different to your competition. A great looking uniform will ensure your brand is on trend and approachable, it will ensure your team stands out from the competition and will ensure your brand is perceived as keeping up with the times. You must be successful if you look successful!
Tips & Tricks for a standout Uniform
Need Identification: Have a thorough understanding of the who, why when, where. Understanding your company requirements, who is wearing the uniform, why, when it is required and within what budget. The clearer the brief the more fit for purpose the product and service. Ensure your team not only stands out but are happy with the new designs.
Colour, Fabric and Fit: Talk to the experts and ask for suggestions on the latest fabrics and fits that have been tried and tested in your industry. Don’t try and reinvent the wheel as uniforms need to be fit for purpose and practical and if it works for others it will work for your team.
Range Planning- Tell the whole story from top to toe. If you spend time creating a look it needs to consider all factors. Will staff need a winter wear option? What trousers are they expected to wear? Is there a requirement for a cap or beanie? There is no point creating a fabulous shirt or polo only to have it covered up by a Hot Pink Jumper which is off brand and not communicating the consistent story of your brand.
The Devil is in the Detail – Ensure there is a company uniform policy outlining dress standards. Should the shirt be worn tucked in our out? What type and colour shoes are acceptable? What is the jewelry policy? Unfortunately, common sense isn’t always common and when taking the time to create your team image through uniform it is even more important to follow that through with the detail of how it should or shouldn’t be worn.
A new logo, or shop fitout without a uniform is like a cake without icing, like an outfit with the wrong shoes. It is the finishing touch that brings it all together and ensures your company image is complete. What does your uniform look like right now? And what does it say about your brand?