(This is a reposting of an article I wrote for a podcast I co-hosted, once upon a time.)
Let me preface this entry by saying that I like to wear jeans and t-shirts as much as the next guy. Generally speaking, my wardrobe consists of more dark than a black hole. And we all know that if you’re going to be spending the day crawling around the raised floor pulling cables, common sense dictates casual clothes that don’t ruin easily.
My organization’s dress code calls for business casual, except on Fridays (when you can bribe your way into wearing jeans). For me, that generally means khakis (I recommend Bill’s Khakis, by the way – comfortable as jeans, and sharp looking as well) and a button-down long sleeved shirt.
Today is different for me, though. Today, I’m wearing a crisp white dress shirt with a tie, and the comments have already started. We’ve all heard them a million times, and in fact have probably razzed co-workers with the same words. Say them with me:
- “What’s up with that? Got an interview today?”
- “Trying to impress someone?”
or, my new favorite:
“I’d ask if you’ve got an interview, but I want to make sure it’s not a funeral first.”
By the way, the first question always amuses me, since if I had an interview, I’d be wearing a suit. Of course, you wouldn’t have seen me in it, since I’d have it in the car waiting to change in the bathroom of a convenient McDonald’s, a process referred to as “Dancing with the Clown”.
No, I don’t have an interview, and I’m only trying to impress one person. Me.
The way you dress is important for many reasons. The obvious ones, like meeting your organization’s dress code, representing your company well in front of visitors or during an off-site meeting, or just looking your best for an important meeting all come to mind. In my experience, however, there’s a much more important function to be served.
You see, I’ve been feeling a little whiny and off my game for a few days, and I need to get back in my zone. For me, the start of that is wearing a tie. What I’m trying to say is that how you dress can be a touchstone for your professionalism. It doesn’t hold true for everyone, but it is something to consider.
It can be argued that I can be just as effective in shorts and flip-flops, and from the perspective of someone who worked exclusively from home for several years, I can tell you that it’s a valid point. On the other hand, there’s just no substitute for putting on the uniform if you want to be a superhero.
When I wear a tie and a dress shirt, I remind myself that I am NOT some scruffy hippy who holds down a day job in IT. I am a professional systems administrator, with all the responsibility implied by that. I slouch a little less. I speak with more clarity and focus. In short, to paraphrase Clint Eastwood from Heartbreak Ridge:
When you dress like a professional, you’ll feel like a professional, and pretty soon, you might start acting like a professional.
Besides, when you’re up at 05:00, a tie is a great way to annoy yourself into staying awake!