A smart, clean and modern uniform is an essential part of the face that workers at resorts and hotels need to show to the world. There are two primary reasons for this – one is inward-looking and the other is guest-facing.
The inward-looking aspect is fairly simple to explain. A smart uniform provides staff with a sense of identity. It is a constant reminder that they are part of both an organization and a team – and that they are valued members of that team. A uniform allows them to immediately identify team members in sometimes chaotic and crowded environments. Culinary uniforms are distinctly different from house-keeping staff uniforms, and this ability to distinguish various divisions and personnel can help keep things running in a more organized fashion.
On a simpler level a fresh, clean and attractive uniform allows employees to feel good about themselves and their team members. this has direct influence on their self-worth and thus their ability and motivation to perform above and beyond the baseline of their job description.
Uniforms are also a great leveler. They are a visual statement that each employee is highly valued and that there is a respect of the idea of equality within the organization.
The second reason that uniforms are so important is outward-facing. The brand identity of the resort or hotel is an essential part of its value proposition and an asset that must be protected and nurtured at all costs. The uniforms provide a highly visible way for the organization to promote the ethos of the brand.
For this reason, uniforms are available in a number of formats and appearances. A uniform used in a hotel or a resort can be casual, or even playful, while those in more staid environments are a visual representation of exceptional levels of service or even a visual clue as to the history of the resort or hotel.
On a more practical level, a uniform helps guests to identify staff who might make their stay more pleasant. in this case uniforms are essential to promote happy guests and return business.
In short, a well-designed uniform which is appropriate to the environment is an absolutely invaluable addition to the brand of the hotel or resort. Without attention to detail as far as uniforms are concerned, a brand and the performance of the organization can suffer irreparable harm.
However, it is absolutely essential that the uniform is not treated as an afterthought or a ‘nice to have.’ Uniforms need to be maintained and be fresh and clean. In addition, uniforms do need periodic updating – just as brand identities do. An old, faded or dated uniform is one that is not contributing to an air of professionalism. In fact, it may very well be doing the opposite.
Uniforms are part and parcel of the hospitality experience and budget must be set aside to keep them looking good. The result is a happier staff and happier guests.
