In the evolving landscape of financial services, community bankers’ attire has undergone a significant transformation. The days when the traditional suit and tie symbolized professionalism and authority might be gone, replaced by today’s more relaxed and casual dress code. This shift is particularly evident in community banks.
But the notion of bankers dressing to reflect the type of clients they hope to engage still has value. A tech-savvy entrepreneur may better connect with a banker in short-sleeves and comfortable shoes, while a high-net-worth prospect might prefer a suit/tie, blazer/blouse combination.
Why Bank Employee Attire Matters for Customer Perception
Gregory Jerome, Principle of Philadelphia’s Gregory Jerome Image Consulting is a Sartorial Brand Specialist. He emphasizes the significance of ensuring visual alignment between employees and customers.
“The bank’s personality is expressed through the way its employees dress,” he says. Dressing authentically exudes confidence and boosts vitality.
“You will never know how much money you’re losing by having a lackluster appearance. On the other hand, how your style can attract a substantial number of opportunities. Banks need to keep all of this in mind when crafting an employee look that fits their brands.”
Lars B. Eller, President and CEO at Farmers and Merchants State Bank, Archbold, Ohio, agrees.
He says that bankers’ daily fashion choices should depend on who they’re meeting:
- If you’re meeting with a factory owner, don jeans and a golf shirt.
- If you’re meeting with a bond portfolio manager, get into a suit.
- If you’re meeting with some folks who are 65 or older, it’s best to wear a tie, even though the pandemic resulted in very few occasions to still wear one.
“What’s important is to understand your client’s perspective in determining appropriate attire.”
Regional Differences in Community Bankers’ Attire
Sartorial choices for bankers may differ regionally and by bank asset size.
For example, Ambler Savings Bank embraces a more casual dress code to strengthen connections with the Philadelphia suburbanites it serves. Marketing Officer Carolyn Watson explains, “Golf shirts for me! Gone are the days of power suits. We are trying to build relationships, not show off. Community bankers are part of the community, not an elitist club. Taking down the dress code a notch helps convey that.”
Confidence and Comfort: The Pillars of Successful Banker Attire
Alex Opiela III, Chief Operating Officer at Mauch Chunk Trust Company in Jim Thorpe, Pa., elevates the community bankers’ attire discussion by reframing it.
“I believe there are three things to consider when staring at your closet in the morning, which transcend company policies and are a good means to live by,” he says. Opiela recommends:
- Dress for the situation. “Whether it’s a high-profile meeting, networking event, or Saturday grocery run, the situation matters,” he explains.
- Dress in your style. “Everyone is different, with some liking solid, traditional patterns and others liking loud and unique patterns.”
- Dress for your body style and personal comfort. “Humans and clothes don’t come in a one-size-fits-all category, so find your style — and use a good tailor when needed. Regardless of the debate over informal or formal attire, following policy while being comfortable and feeling confident can be done in a suit or jeans and a company-branded polo,” Opiela concludes.
