America's business casual movement has other cultures scratching their heads, too. They're perplexed by it, especially meeting with these high-tech companies that are so very casual. You can always remove your jacket or tie if the occasion warrants. Accipiter says business casual is both a blessing and a curse for small businesses. The job market is excruciatingly tight for companies trying to hire and retain right now.
Casual dress is a very popular benefit.
In today's labor market, it behooves employers to create policies that are popular with employees. We are long past the days when gentlemen wore suits to ball games and it's not surprising that our workplace would change as well. Beyond the obvious recruiting benefits, Accipiter says companies find that casual dress often spiffs up the bottom line, as well. People are more productive when they're comfortable, it saves them a good amount of money not needing two different wardrobes, and it helps break down the hierarchical structure. It also allows for a little more cultural and ethnic diversity at work, as long as it fits within the overall company guidelines.