Keeping Up Appearances
(July/August 2008)
by Jane Pettit, M.S., organizational Effectiveness Consultant, & Melody Vanoy, M.b.A., Program Coordinator for Diversity, both employees of UMHS Human Resources
In our personal life, our “audience” is our family and friends. At work, our audience is our Health System customers. Maintaining the balance between individuality and professionalism can be tricky. In addition, as a health system, we have the responsibility to be sensitive to our patients, families and other staff from a health standpoint. Ultimately, it’s up to all of us to ensure we maintain a professional, healthy and inclusive environment as it relates to appropriate attire in the workplace.
What can we do?
As you get ready for your workday, ask yourself, “What is the message I am trying to send? How do I want my audience to perceive me?” If you have a question about the appropriateness of dress, appearance, behavior or any policy for your area, please talk with your manager or supervisor for clarification. Other resources:
- View "UMHS Image Awareness" to see reactions from real patients and their families to improper dress, conversations, etiquette and other situations. You can find "UMHS Image Awareness" in the videos section of the YoU-Factor Web site.
- Review the UMHS Dress & Appearance policy, which includes our Perfumes policy
- Review UMHS Tobacco policy
It is difficult to talk about issues like dress, appearance and behavior, which are so apparent to the casual observer and yet so personal to each one of us. If you are concerned about a colleague’s appearance, aroma or manner of dress, try to talk with the individual, or talk to your supervisor. For additional assistance, you can contact your Human Resources consultant and ask how to approach such difficult issues with a colleague in a manner that is respectful and sensitive to the individual. You can also borrow HR’s copy of “The Practical Coach” video, which includes a segment on poor personal habits.
Remember: It is important for each employee to know the unit’s guidelines. If you don’t know them, ask. If you do know them, share with others.
A final word: Policies such as the ones mentioned here have been developed for our patients and families—and for staff. Such policies are one more way in which we Take Care of Our Own.