New Poll: Die necktie, die?
October 6, 2006

Recently, I published a post called Die Necktie, die - about why it’s time to discard the necktie as a component of the business wardrobe. It was one of the most discussed posts in a while – with people taking both sides of the issue. So I wondered what would come back if we asked all of you for your thoughts. Hence, the newest poll: “Does the necktie still have a place in today’s business environment?”
Check out the left column to answer and see the results so far.
See the results of our last poll on open salaries here.
Tags: HRRelated posts
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3 Responses to “New Poll: Die necktie, die?”
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The origin of the necktie is an interesting bit of trivia. In olden times, there were no tablecloths or napkins. Tables were bare wood and people wiped their hands on their clothes. Eventually, someone invented the tablecloth, and people wiped their hands on it. Then, they would put layers of tablecloths and remove the top one after every course, after hands had been wiped. Then, the napkin was invented, but it was hung around the neck. At royal courts in Europe, the more important people sat at the head of the table, and they started wearing fancier napkins, to denote their status. They got fancier and fancier, becoming ascots and often using silks and brocades, and finally evolved into neckties. So, the tie began as a napkin hung around the neck. Time to get rid of them. They serve no purpose.
While I support, and promote, within my organization the idea of a more relaxing environment that fosters creativity and productivity. I also see the need for some positions within organizations that will still require a tie.
In the world we live today, perception becomes reality. We could trust our money to a banker that talked to us in shorts and t-shirt, as much as we would our kids to do so.
For many of us to be able to sell solutions and consulting services, it is imperative that we first sell our image.
While expectations, called it prejudice, from our markets don’t change we will need in some positions and industries to continue wearing ties.
For men, at a certain level it is as necessary as wearing trousers.
Many greeting from Sweden