Personal Appearance
Appropriate casual business attire and attention to personal hygiene reflect employee pride and inspire confidence in our customers, co-workers, students and community visitors and affects the general public’s opinion of Wilkes University as a whole. Thus, employees are expected to present themselves appropriately for the work setting and work being performed there. Using common sense and good judgment, employees should generally refer to the following guidelines:
ACCEPTABLE
Business casual attire, which allows employees to be comfortable, yet still projects a professional image is generally acceptable. Suitable casual attire is neat, well laundered/pressed and fits appropriately. Facial hair is permissible but must be well groomed at all times. In departments or positions where required, a neat and clean uniform is to be worn at all times.
UNACCEPTABLE
Clothing that is appropriate at beaches, pools, gyms, dance clubs, exercise sessions, and sports contests are not considered business casual and are therefore not appropriate for the workplace. Some examples:
- Short shorts
- Tube tops / Tank Tops / Halter Tops
- Torn jeans
- T-shirts, sneakers, and other gym wear (excluding coaching staff)
- Bathing suits of any kind
- Stained, soiled or offensive smelling clothing of any kind
- Any clothing with offensive language, pictures or art
- Any clothing that is revealing or suggestive
Due to the nature of work or department based standards, some employees may be required to meet special dress, grooming and/or hygiene standards, such as wearing uniforms or protective clothing to ensure their safety. In such cases, supervisors will communicate these guidelines to employees.
Any employee experiencing uncertainty about acceptable business casual clothing or uniform requirements for their department or position should contact a supervisor or the Human Resources Department before wearing the attire to work. Any employee who does not meet the personal appearance standards of his/her department will be required to leave work and remedy the situation.