How do companies have the right to tell an employee what they can and can't wear or do with their body?

Question

I don't understand how a company could tell you what you can and can't do with your body. Where do we draw the line on what is or is not appropriate, and on who?

Answer 1

If they are paying .... you play by their rules. It is that simple! If you don't like it, find another job!

Answer 2

Companies have several ways in which they can dictate dress codes and regulate jewelry.

1. If you meet the public, the company has an interest in projecting a particular image.

2. If you work around equipment or other potentially dangerous area, the company may have safety regulations that require no flowing garments or dangling jewelry.

3. If you are working in a medical facility, they may have health reasons not to risk problems of contagion or hygiene.

4. If you are dressing provocatively, in a way that could antagonize reasonable other members of the work force, they can implement a dress code of not wearing political or religious slogans, not showing tattoos that can provoke anger, or avoid symbols that are readily understood as being provocative (i.e., a swastika).

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Answer 3

Most employers want employees to project a professional look. It helps install confidence in customers, and prevents a lot of problems with distractions etc. As to what is or isn't apprpriate, it's mostly common sense. But, some employers do take it too far. I don't mind earrings, but don't want an employee with facial peircings. It projects the wrong image. If a person wants tattoo's ( I have several) that's their business, but, I won't hire some one with facial tattoos, ot obscene tattoo's that are visible to my customers. Same goes for clothing. Clean, attractive well fitting clothes are OK. Low cut to the point it is obscene won't work, ripped clothing, see thru etc are for your own time. not work time. In short, you can express yourself all you want too on your own time. But the work place isn't the right time. I know a lot of young people have a hard time understanding that, but eventually they either out grow it, of enjoy a carreer in the fast food industry.

Answer 4

They PAY you to work for them - this is not high school!! MOST companies have certain standards they expect their employees to follow - some do so for safety reasons, health reasons, or because they want to project a certain image. It's more involved and detailed than that, but I seriously doubt you could relate to it - this is the REALITY of working for other people in exchange for money - they get to tell you what to do when you are on THEIR clock. If you can't handle abiding by their standards, LEAVE!!

Answer 5

This is coming from somebody who is really into body modification and self expression: Companies have an image they wish to present to the world. They set up policies, like dress codes, so that their employees present the image they want to their customers, suppliers, etc.

Answer 6

The company is the employer and they sign your paycheck. You don't draw the lines on what is appropriate, your employer does. You have the right to quit if you don't like their policies. Grow up.

Answer 7

Companies want their employees to look professional, that's why. If you don't like the companies policy then you don't have to work for them. If they're signing your paycheck they have a right to have a dress code and rules & regulations. Most companies do.

Answer 8

a company has the right to control their public image. if a person is seen by the public while performing their duties as an employee. the company has a right to maintain certain guidelines with regards to how their employees appear. this can include how they look, speak and act.

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Answer 9

Well it's different for certain companies. Like if you have 17 different piercings on your face, a dragon tattoo on your neck, with purple dyed hair and you want to work at a daycare, chances are it's not going to happen for obvious reasons. But if you wanted to work somewhere like Spencers, all those "flaws" would be considered a plus.

Answer 10

Actually they can't - but they can tell you what is acceptable dress and appearance for the job they are offering you. You have the right to choose not to conform and work somewhere else, they have a right to tell you what they expect from you.

If you were a business owner you would understand this issue.

Answer 11

well I look at it this way...it's their company...they foot the bill, and if they have a certain image that they want to send, as an employee you have to follow that. it isn't a right to work for a company, it's a privilege.
it's like this, if you don't like the rules, you can always find another job....