Yep, that’s what I said. Take them off. Take them off right now. I’m talking about those casual clothes that you and others around you have convinced you is ok. You know golf shirts and the business casual deal.
The argument and justification that the customer feels more comfortable and relaxed is a bunch of malarkey. The only person being more relaxed is you.
Look Einstein, the customer is making the second largest purchase in their life next to a home. Do you think they want to do business with a slob? The answer is a big fat no.
Oh, I know if you are dressed in a suit then it’s too intimidating for the customer and they won’t buy the car. Really? You’ve got to be kidding me. Look if your people skills are not better than that and you can’t overcome wearing a suit, then it’s a miracle you’ve lasted this long.
Most of you are in some sort of authority position. Trust me on this one. When you dress casual there has to be an element of loss of respect by those around you. If you want to be more productive then dress like you are productive.
Respect comes from looking the part. When one is attempting to wield power, if nothing else, he or she must look the part. Why do you think the military and police officers wear uniforms? Yes, it defines them and who they are. There is an automatic respect for them based on appearance alone.
Not to bring politics into this, but I think most would agree that the President of the United States is one of the most powerful people in the world. Does he really need to wear a suit? No, but it brings respect to the office and the position. You are no different.
Often times I’ve had 20 Group consultants tell me “hey we will all be dressed casual so feel free to dress casual for the meeting.” As much as I appreciate the offer I have never taken them up on it. For me it’s not about trying to create respect for me, but I dress up to be respectful of them. I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve them, just as you should be with your customers and associates. When you give respect you get respect.
I have a little challenge for you. For the next week dress up when you go to work. Make sure you wear a suit and preferably a long sleeved white shirt. Make it a point not to leave your office without your jacket on. (Ladies, it’s no different for you, you can wear suits also.)
At the end of the day make some notes as to how productive you’ve been. Then in the second week go back to your old way of dressing. I will guarantee you that you will have been far more productive the first week rather than the second.
A dark suit and a long sleeved white shirt never go out of style I don’t care what planet you might be from. That’s all I’m gonna say, Tommy Gibbs