The term ‘dress for success’ is certainly nothing new.
Most of us have heard it a dozen times. But did you know the term is backed by science?
Enclothed Cognition is the psychological phenomenon that emphasizes the connection between your wardrobe and your mindset.
The theory illustrates that when people dress in a way that reflects their professionalism and style, signals are sent to the brain that the person is capable, competent, and prepared to conquer the day. It sounds simple, and it is. Enclothed cognition boosts self-esteem, confidence, and positive self-image.
Flash Uniforms considers this philosophy as it provides tailored solutions to client’s that meet their specific needs. The company works closely with individuals to understand their requirements, from selecting the right fabric to customizing designs, with a focus that it is always aligned with the client’s vision.
For more than 30 years, they have been assisting clients to make an impression because they understand that when people feel good in what uniforms they’re wearing, then they’re more apt to tackle challenges head-on, exhibiting an empowering can-do attitude in the workplace.
Research shows that when people dress in a way that aligns with their goals, it not only makes them feel more self-assured, but their mindset shifts. This has an impact on your team because suddenly, it’s no longer just about wanting to look professional, but it’s more about embodying the qualities you want to project to the outside world.
One example of this is through a study performed on enclothed cognition.
The theory gained attention after a series of studies were conducted by researchers Hajo Adam and Adam D. Galinsky. In the study, participants were asked to wear a white coat. For one group, researchers call it a doctor’s coat, which signifies a scientific focus and an emphasis on being careful and attentive. For the other group, it was called a painter’s coat. Both groups performed the same exact tasks, and those who believed they were wearing a doctor’s coat did better on the academic tasks, while those who thought they were in a painter’s coat, scored higher in creative tasks. This discovery highlights both the symbolic meaning and the physical experience of the clothes we choose.
It even goes a step further because our self-perception has an influence on our decision-making process, which has a direct effect on our overall well-being.
Five Steps to Consider When Choosing Flash Uniforms to Dress to Impress
Comfort is paramount.
Studies have shown that clothing comfort affects cognitive performance. Uncomfortable Uniforms can lead to distraction or increased anxiety, so when it comes to choosing your uniform, make sure your choices won’t force employees to lose their concentration or focus, which has an immediate effect on productivity, confidence levels, and self-esteem. Flash Uniforms works directly with clients to find the right style and sample so individuals can perform at their best.
Enhance and Embody Professional Image
Custom uniforms immediately contribute to perception. A well-designed uniform can convey a sense of reliability and competence, which makes the person who is wearing it feel more confident in the services they are providing. Uniforms also maintain a consistent brand image, which is crucial to build trust and recognition in the workplace. Flash Uniforms know that they are responsible for creating that first impression, which enhances customer service experiences, and they take it very seriously working with each client on their individual needs.
Add a Personal Flair
Your employees’ personal style is an extension of themself and depicts the way they view themself. Flash Uniforms recognizes this and works with clients to determine how to let employees portray their own version of themselves to the outside world with the uniforms chosen. Flash Uniforms helps your team exhibit their individual authenticity with unique custom embroidery & Screen Printing on their uniforms. This means you get your designs, branding, logos and more embroidered in the highest quality, and they get to add their personal flair, which guarantees stunning results for that first impression and a confidence building mechanism for employees.
Select Colors with Intent
Research shows that in a professional work environment, dark and black clothing evokes a sense of power and authority. One study discovered that managers evaluate job applicants who wear black clothing as someone with integrity and a higher moral reputation. Supervisors and those in higher ranks in an organization have also been encouraged to wear darker colors to be more influential on a team. Certain colors can also trigger desired emotions. When you wear certain colors, it can immediately have the opportunity to lift someone’s spirit. Select colors that suit the message you want to project. A quick Google search can reveal more information about the color wheel and various personalities.
Improve Employee Morale
What you wear doesn’t just impact you, studies have shown it can also have an impact on all the people around you. Many of us can think of a time in our career when a colleague chose not to wear a uniform or wore one that was low-grade or wrinkled all the time. Think back to how that made you feel when you worked with that individual. It’s been proven that wearing high-quality, well-designed workwear not only boosts employee morale, but also fosters a sense of deep team unity.
Conclusion
It’s more than simply choosing the right uniform; it’s adopting a mindset.
Research has proven that people tend to embody the traits that their garments represent so it’s crucial to take that into consideration when making the selection to represent your company.
Enclothed Cognition has the power to transform both a client’s personal and professional life all at once.