So in the famous movie words of one Robyn Williams, "Its hot. Damn hot".
So when the bulb hits 40, and your on your way to that all important first meeting with a new client, what you gona wear?
I remember back to my first flight in Ansett. I was a young 22 years of age and how nervous I was. After several months training, I was finally rostered to do a flight in the cockpit, where I got to watch and help the crew before I actually started my flying training. I was programmed with one of the senior Check Pilots, who either loved or hated you.
Our start time was 5.45am and we were doing the milk run; Perth, Newman, Paraburdoo, Port headland, Karratha, Perth.
I was so excited the night before; getting all of my uniform out and ready and my alarm set for 4.15am.
No need for the alarm to go off. I have watched the clock all night; in the shower, a quick shave, in the car and were there. Put the tie on - oh no, my tie!!!!!
The tie was still sitting on the bench at home! What to do?
I searched my car and luckily I had an old flying tie, shoved in the boot. Not Ansett issue, but better than nothing. What would this Check Pilot say. How much can I sweat on a cool Perth morning?
I followed the first officer to the plane and he showed me the ropes and then my moment of truth approached. The Check Pilot arrived and I had the thought of "lets get this over with". He was a big man, with a loud voice and he called every First Officer "ace". As I said "good morning" and introduced myself, the words came out. "Good morning ace. A little word of help for you. When we fly, make sure the 3 most important rules are followed. Always have a paper for me to read, never have your tie on in the cockpit and lets have a relaxed and fun trip".
How quickly did I take my tie off?
My fear was gone and we had a great day where I learned a lot. I suddenly realised that a tie is not an essential part of business attire.
So what are you going to wear to the meeting on the 40 degree day? Will you go for the tie, jacket and a business shirt that is probably clinging to your body, better than a rubber glove to your hand?
With flying, I have travelled a lot throughout Asia, and in many places, (I'll excuse Japan - a story for another day), ties are generally not worn.
So why do we not follow suit - pardon the pun?
My guess is, that we are still a little "old school", but I must say, with more younger people taking the roles of senior managers, I have noticed that many are starting to do away with the tie most of the time.
Now don't get me wrong. I still think at certain times, a tie might be appropriate, but not at all times.
So lets start a trend. I vow to conduct next years events, without a tie. and it is going to cost me. My lovely wife has been at me for a while to go "tie-less", but said that a shopping trip will be in order to "trendy" myself up. My guess it is not just a shopping trip for me!
I will be open to any comments; I'm a big boy, tell me if I'm wrong. But provided you dress to an acceptable standard, does it in any way affect your ability to do the job you are trying to do, with or without a tie?
Sorry ladies if this is a little male orientated, but it is something I feel strong about and I believe that all people have limitations and they should not try to comment on the things they are not educated in. And female fashion is one area I am not educated in.
I would love some female input to this subject' both on the "tie" issue and how this trend can also apply to our female population. I'm sure you have these issues as well.
So to "tie" up this newsletter, (I could not resist getting one more bad joke in), there are a few more exciting MBN things happening before Christmas.
We have a Cocktail evening with Rod North, from Bourse Communications, on the 2nd December at the RACV Club. What a chance to get close and personal with one of Australia's leading Financial Commentators. Numbers are strictly limited, so get in early.
On the 4-5 December we have a new and innovative networking, leadership and personal development program, the 32 Hour Challenge. Be part of this new and exciting event as a team or an individual.
Check out the web site for all the latest information on each of these events.
Happy networking and see you at our next event.
Cheers
Dave ("I'm off to do some shopping") King