I actually posted a question about this last year.  Our interns and part-time staff wear a uniform of a polo and khaki pants.  We have a pretty frank explanation of what that looks like even though it seems that a polo and khaki uniform is very straightforward. Many of our staff still manage to make dress blunders with the uniform.  If you do not want a uniform, which is just fine, a policy should be in place.  I agree with all that has been said in the previous emails- be explicit with your interns and younger staff.  They deserve to hear what is the standard for professional dress.  I also think that it is easier for women to speak with women and men to men if an issue arises (like your butt crack is hanging out or do not wear a black bra under a white blouse). I've learned that I want our staff to notice our interns for the amazing contributions they are making to our museum, not their short skirts and giant hoop earrings.
Melissa Marietta
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum 

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Laurel Weller
Sent: Wednesday, August 23, 2006 12:53 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: dress code for employees and interns


As a "youngish" professional, I encourage all of you to be frank with your interns and young employees.  Part of being an intern is supposed to be learning about the work environment, and appropriate dress is part of that. You are, in the long run, helping these young people to know that they should not go out on their first professional interviews in low-rider pants and plunging-neckline tops.  If they have a problem with that, maybe a museum career is not for them.

I would have same-gender staff deal with dress code issues...not only is the situation more comfortable for both parties, you can avoid potential harassment claims.  At a previous job I frequently dealt with dress code issues with our female teen volunteers for my male supervisor.

-Laurel

------------------------------
Laurel K. Weller
Museum Educator
Mütter Museum
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Phone:  215-563-3737 x203
E-Mail:  [log in to unmask]
 

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