Respecting the Environment
Gabriela Alejo-Martinez
Co-Presenters: Karla Ramirez, Joselyn Carvajal
College: College of Business and Public Management
Major: Global Business
Faculty Research Mentor: Ipek Kocoglu
Abstract:
Title: Respecting The EnvironmentAuthors: Gabriela Alejo-Martinez, Joselyn Carvajal, Karla RamirezPrinciples Of Management - Kean UniversityDress codes are the norm in working life, determining how individuals are perceived at work. Some firms have strict dress codes, while others are less formal. It's a mystery how attire influences perceptions of professionalism and capability. This study examines how different styles of dressing for work—business formal, business casual, and casual—impact perceptions of credibility and professionalism.Undergraduate students or family members who work in a professional environment will take part in this study by undertaking a survey that evaluates their perception of professionalism from photographic portraits of subjects who are dressed in different types of attire. Competence, credibility, and general professionalism will be measured by the survey. A literature review will also give contextual evidence regarding the psychological and social impacts of dress codes in the workplace.The findings must establish a significant link between workplace dressing and impressions of professionalism. Business formal dressing must be associated with greater perceptions of credibility and competency, with casual dressing being rated as less professional. With changing workplace norms, though, the difference between business casual and business formal may be less clear. The research will also establish if dress codes have a disproportionate impact on certain demographic groups.These observations indicate that professional image and workplace relations are significantly determined by corporate dress codes. As professional dress increases credibility, companies can gain by incorporating casual dress codes to accommodate evolving workplace cultures. This study highlights the need to balance professionalism with inclusiveness in contemporary workplaces.Keywords: Attire, Professionalism, Dress Codes, Perception, Workplace Norms