Choice Increases Employee Morale
This blog post, originally published in 2017, was updated in 2023.
Even when we recognize a requirement is in our best interest, it’s human nature to resist being told what to do. However, when people have options – even when all those options meet the requirements – they are more likely to comply, more likely to be comfortable, and more likely to be satisfied. The same goes for PPE programs. Follow along with The Power of Choice to explore the top 5 reasons cited by safety managers for moving to a choice-based AR / FR clothing program.
Morale is defined as “the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group at a particular time.” Companies are often motivated to boost employee morale because it allows them to take advantage of several benefits that occur as a result: increased productivity, satisfaction, and positive attitude toward the company. The trick is figuring out how. Luckily, Tyndale has a creative and cost-effective method: introduce choice to AR / FR and PPE programs!
Choice programs allow workers to shop from a selection of comfortable, stylish clothing instead of being told what to wear by the company. Employees are empowered to purchase preferred items from a company-approved catalog – featuring a wide variety of garments that meet company safety and image requirements – resulting in increased satisfaction and better attitude toward the company and program. Watch our video below and read on to learn why companies should consider offering choice to boost morale:
Physical Response to Comfort
Because comfort is extremely subjective, virtually the only way to ensure comfort for a group of employees is by offering a reasonable array of styles, colors, weights, fabrics, and brands (all meeting the protective needs of the company). Tyndale offers an assortment of fabrics that are breathable, lightweight and provide warmth without the bulk and weight. Employees can purchase garments based on personal preference, ensuring comfort and satisfaction for all.
On the contrary, workers who are uncomfortable may alter their clothing in an effort to make it more comfortable – rolling up sleeves or stopping to adjust their clothing. This can be frustrating for the employee and, critically, could result in an injury in the event of a hazard.
The best thing about being comfortable while working is that you don’t have to think about it. Instead, employees can focus on their professional priorities, resulting in increased satisfaction and productivity.
Satisfaction Wearing Stylish Brands
Past generations of AR / FR were viewed as stiff, boxy, hot, and industrial. Today, many popular brands that workers choose to wear off the clock have recently introduced AR / FR clothing to their product lines. Tyndale manufactures our own complete line of FR clothing – including a full range of American-made products – and distributes FR from industry-leading suppliers like Ariat, Bulwark, Carhartt, Cinch, Wrangler, and much more. Our wide selection of AR / FR clothing allows companies to include a variety of items that meet safety and image requirements in the program, encouraging workers to choose clothing that they find stylish. As a result, employees are more satisfied and comfortable.
Improved Attitude toward AR / FR and PPE Programs
In a no-choice program, clothing styles, fabrics, and colors are dictated by the company. This can lead to a number of challenges, including failure to comply with safety requirements, and workers may end up blaming the company for their dissatisfaction. Alternately, allowing employees to choose their preferred combination of clothing leads to increased satisfaction, compliance, and furthermore, improved attitude toward the program and company. Workers who are satisfied with their clothing selections are more likely to attribute their comfort and safety to the company, rather than view the program as strict and disempowering.
Ready to boost employee morale with a Tyndale managed choice program? Contact us today at 800-356-3433.
Stay tuned for our next post in this series which focuses on cost reduction through a choice program!
