There’s a misconception out there that dressing for success is only a concept within boardrooms and other settings where a full suit-and-tie getup is required, but this is far from reality. There are actually many fields where dressing properly makes a big impact on both the quality of work and the impression made on clients, and the contracting world is no exception.
At Contractors School, we’re here to assist contractors around Utah with everything from their contractor licensure and starting their contracting business to existing contracting business management and more. While many of our services focus on important technical areas like business entity updates, license upgrades and more, we’re also here to help with important nuances like these. Why is how you dress important for any contractor and contracting business, and what are some factors to keep in mind as you dress and equip yourself for any job? Here are some basics.
Why Attire Matters for Contractors
There are several major reasons why what you wear as a contractor is important:
- Safety: Naturally, one of the primary concerns any contractor has for both themselves and their team is safety. This means not only using the right safety equipment, but also dressing properly for the job site. This can include everything from non-slip shoes to protective eyewear and more.
- Professionalism: As we noted above, impressions matter in contracting as they do in many other fields. The first impression you make on a client or potential customer can have a lasting impact, and dressing professionally is an important part of this. The right attire shows that you take yourself and your work seriously.
- Branding: For those who own their own contracting business, dressing appropriately also serves as a form of branding. It helps to solidify the image you want for your business, whether that’s one of professionalism, creativity, or something else.
So what should contractors consider when dressing for a job? Here are some important factors to keep in mind across our next few sections.
Comfort
One of the first major elements to consider as you choose attire is comfort. This doesn’t just mean your personal physical comfort, but also that of the job site and the safety measures in place.
Are there requirements for proper footwear or other clothing? What about extreme temperatures – do you need layers for winter, or does the job call for lighter fabric options during hotter months? Always keep these kinds of questions in mind as you prepare for a job and choose attire accordingly.
Safety
Important elements of safety to consider include slip resistance, visibility, protection from hazardous materials or chemicals, and more. Never cut corners on safety – while you may be able to save money by not investing in proper gear now, the potential consequences far outweigh any benefits.
For instance, if you’re working with heavy materials or power tools, sturdy shoes and gloves are crucial for protecting your hands and feet. In contrast, if the job site is located in a high-risk area or involves working near busy traffic, high-visibility clothing can help prevent accidents.
Condition of Clothing
Both for safety reasons and for making a strong impression on clients or customers, it’s important to keep your attire in good condition. This means replacing any worn-out or damaged gear as needed and keeping clothes clean and free of stains.
Color
There will be many settings in which color is not particularly important for contractors, but in some situations it can matter. In particular, if you’re wearing high-visibility clothing or need to be easily identifiable on a job site, choosing bright colors can help with this.
For example, if you’re involved in road construction, bright orange or yellow gear can help drivers spot you more easily. Similarly, if you’re working in a hazardous area where other contractors may also be present, distinct colors can help prevent confusion.
Have a Suit Handy
While your daily project responsibilities may not always warrant dressing up, it’s important to have at least one professional outfit ready for meetings or any situations where you’ll be requesting permits or licenses. A suit is also ideal if you’re bidding for an important contract or meeting with a potential client for the first time.
Dressing appropriately is important for any contractor, whether you’re just beginning your contracting journey or have been in business for years. It’s not just about making a good impression on clients and customers, but also about staying safe and maintaining professionalism. Consider all of these factors as you select attire for each job, and remember that dressing for success can encompass much more than just a suit-and-tie.
At Contractors School, we’re committed to providing comprehensive support for contractors across Utah. Contact us today to learn about our services and how we can help you succeed in your contracting business. Let’s work together towards success!
