Dress codes often have a purpose, but they need to be clear: HR expert

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Following the furore over women wearing sleeveless shirts at the legislature, are you wondering what you’re allowed to wear to work?

A human resources professional says there is a lot companies can do to prevent what we saw on Thursday in Victoria.

WATCH: Dress code debate at the B.C. Legislature

 

Mike Shekhtman with Robert Half Canada says whether you love them or hate them, dress codes are important. But whether you’re a boss who wants to make sure there are no short-shorts in the office or an employee hoping to wear something a little more casual on hot days, it’s crucial that everyone understands the rules and why they are in place.

“Whether it’s a government institution or a private entity … I think so much can be avoided just by having open dialogue,” he said.

“When you don’t have a detailed dress code — which is sometimes hard to enforce — it leaves a little bit of a grey area for people to make their own decisions and perception of what is appropriate.”

He says dress codes can set the tone for employees, visitors and potential customers. But companies can’t just use a template because a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work.

“If it’s a professional services environment, such as a law firm … they certainly want to be portrayed in a professional manner, versus maybe a tech company that is a bit more casual.”

He says it’s also important for bosses to abide by the same rules as employees.

RELATED: #RightToBareArms gaining support after BC Legislature female staff, reporters told to cover up

 

On Thursday some staff and reporters at the B.C. Legislature took a stand, a day after a security official told a staffer wearing small cap-sleeves to cover herself up.

“In 2019, the notion of telling women how to dress is, indeed, crazy,” said Green Party House Leader Sonia Furstenau.

“I think it’s ridiculous in this day and age that we’re having people police professional dress for professional women,” said Finance Minister Carole James.

Thursday afternoon, the Speakers’ office issued an official statement, saying “In the modern era, the Legislative Assembly should adhere to a gender-neutral approach to dress code expectations.”

“Gender-neutral business attire generally constitutes layered clothing that includes covered shoulders. For example, for an individual who identifies as a man, this would typically include a collared dress shirt and tie, dress pants or kilt, and a suit jacket. For an individual who identifies as a woman, this would typically include a business suit, dress with sleeves, or a skirt with a sweater or blouse; jackets or cardigans are not necessarily required. Individuals who do not identify as gender binary may dress pursuant to the guidelines above, as they deem appropriate.”

 – With files from Liza Yuzda

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