Event Planning Information – A Uniform Appearance

Photo courtesy of SketchThisOut on flickr

You’ve got your event planned down to a tee. Every last detail has been checked and double checked and you know you’ve got this one in the bag. Nothing to worry about, nothing to fear. Then it happens (cue scary “Jaws” like music here). Your staff show up and between Mr Threadbare (hasn’t bought a new shirt in three years) and Ms Cleavage (show’em if you got’em), their outfits leave much to be desired.

They say that clothes make the man (or woman). And your men and women are looking a little worse for the wear. So, to implement a uniform policy or not? That is the question.

Event Planning Information – The Pro’s and Con’s of a Uniform

How much, or how little, of a uniform is up to each planner. Should you implement a dress code or uniform? What’s right for you?

TheFreeDictionary.com defines a uniform as “A distinctive outfit intended to identify those who wear it as members of a specific group”. And that’s why I like uniforms. Because first and foremost, they establish who is working and enable your delegates (clients, suppliers and other team members) to differentiate between worker bee and attendee.

Uniforms also give you some control over what your team is wearing. So it may help you avoid the inappropriate, the fashion challenged and the indifferent.

Event Planning Information – What to Wear, What to Wear?

There are so many different options you can choose when deciding to go with uniforms. But first, decide who you want in a uniform. Is it your planners and your coordinators? On site staff? Most of your suppliers wear uniforms (transportation, catering, venue, DMCs), so what can you do to stand out from them?

Golf shirts are a popular option. They’re affordable and can be printed with company (or conference) names and logos. But frankly, I’m not a big fan of golf shirts. Very few people actually look good in golf shirts. They’re boxy and show off the good, the bad and the ugly. So unless they’re Tiger Woods, or a size six, chances are they’re not going to work for some of your team. And when someone is uncomfortable, it shows and can even affect their work performance.

The black and white option is also popular (black pants, white shirt). Add either a logoed tie or scarf and you’ve got yourself a uniform. It’s easy and affordable. It also allows your staff to be wearing their own clothing that they’re comfortable in. But with the added bonus of an easy identifier for the delegates.