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Input from employees, comfort are big issues when buying uniforms
Picking a new uniform for hotel employees isn't just about style these days, it's about building self-esteem-making the selection of the perfect uniform all the more important.
"If employees feel like they look good in their uniforms, then they will feel good about themselves," said Erik Nisbet, national marketing manager for lodging, gaming and cruises for Uniforms To You in Chicago.
Nisbet said hiring a design team to visit the hotel and talk to the employees before redressing the staff is the first step toward finding uniforms that work.
At the Grand Hyatt Washington, where dress is conservative, designers were hired to seek employee input before the new tone-on-tone shirts and ties were purchased for the front desk. Marc Ellin, v.p. and sales manager for the hotel, said taking the time to gather employee input made the Aug. 1 uniform transition smoother.
"We take uniforms seriously," Ellin said. "We want employees to like what they are wearing because this is a very fashion-forward industry."
Even hotels with a more casual atmosphere should seek employee input and consult experts before buying uniforms, said Jack Burns, owner and managing partner of the Days Inn Traverse City (Mich.), where employees wear polo shirts and khaki pants and shorts.
"Employees have to buy into the uniforms," Burns said. "Uniforms have to be comfortable and [employees] have to like the color and style."
Secondly, Nisbet said comfort and durability should be considered before making a uniform decision. Recently, Uniforms To You introduced its new line of housekeeping uniforms designed specifically for comfort.
"We have dresses and tunics made out of stretch fabric that allow for more room to move. The material gives a little bit," he said.
Diane Zebell, merchandising...