THE SLIPPERY SLOPE

Many years ago, I interviewed and was hired for a position with a very large financial service firm. The manager who interviewed me was a very distinguished and well -dressed individual. When he offered me the opportunity to join the firm he said I want you to know that in my office the policy is male employees always wear suits and ties at work. Sport coats or blazers with a tie are not acceptable. The term "business casual" had not yet been invented

I had been working there for several months when he invited me to lunch one day. While having lunch I said to him "I have heard that at some of the other of the firm's offices Account Executives were permitted to Sport Coats or Blazers with a tie during business hours." I ask why he maintained a suit only policy. He looked across the table at me and said because I believe if I bend that rule just slightly it will be the first step down the "slippery slope".

Since that conversation many years ago the world went from suits and ties only to business casual Fridays to business casual every day. This was followed by plain casual all the time. This was followed by wear whatever you want any day any time any place. Then it came to you can stay at home and work from bed in your pajamas when you feel like it and if it is not a lot of trouble.

Looking back his concern about the relaxing the dress code just slightly would be the first step down the slippery slope was exactly right.

The man may have been a genius!

WRITTEN BY

RON TURETT