Does Casual Friday Decrease Productivity?

When "casual Fridays" became widespread in the '90's, most companies did it to keep employees happy. The logic seemed sound, a happy employee would perform better. But is this really what happens? Don't show your boss the following research!

In three studies by Dr. Jeffrey Magee, a research psychologist, his company surveyed firms ranging in size from 100 employees to Fortune 500 companies. What the study found is that a casual dress code results in a relaxation of manners, ethics, productivity, absenteeism, quality, commitment, loyalty, HR complaints of behavior, foul language and tardiness. The study was so conclusive, that many companies, most notably Target, have decided to switch back to more professional clothing.

Other studies show that how a person dresses influence their behavior. People seem to act more refined when they are dressed up. So why do I bring this up? Because the casual attitude has a subtle influence on todays society. While we did need to "lighten up" in some instances, for the most part, we shouldn't lighten up when it comes to civility, manners, and etiquette. Now I'm not advocating everyone going back to the 1940's where all men wore suits and hats, but if we recognize what we are doing and how it is being eroded, we are better able to combat it.

People generally feel good when they dress up. This is when they feel they look their best. But can't we have the same type of pride and self-esteem with our casual clothes and casual attitude? Research says it's possible for some people, but most people will not take the same time to get ready when dressed casually or spend an equal amount of money on a casual wardrobe and as a result not have the same self esteem.

Clothing reflects the era, so in this "almost anything goes" casual culture, our clothing suits it very well. But there are signs of change. The fact that several companies are moving away from casual dress is an indication to me that perhaps we are slowly moving back towards a slightly more formal/respectful society. As we evolve and learn as a culture, our clothing reflects the attitudes of the times. I'm eternally optimistic that our manners/ethics/character will improve. Let's do it one person at a time.