I can honestly say that I am happy with my current job. I will not dwell too much on the details of why, in particular, apart from the obvious reason that I really want to be part of the European Project. But one reason that is not so obvious is the ability to wear shirts to work.
For those who enjoy remote work or freelancing, this is something of a mystery. Why would anyone enjoy going to the office when remote work is an option? Why would you want to wear shirts when you could make do with t-shirts and jumpers? And what kind of a reason is that – the ability to wear shirts?
Let me explain. I have experience as a freelancer. For a couple of years, I worked as a freelance translator from home, and I did not have to dress for work. Even though it may sound great, I did dream about having an office job. Or a job where you would have to wear shirts and jackets. No, my dad does not wear shirts and jackets to work. Never has. I was not influenced by any of my family members. The simple answer is – I really like how I look and feel when I wear a shirt. That’s it.
In my previous job, the dress code was casual. Everyone could wear what they wished. One colleague of mine even came to work in shorts and flip-flops. How had I dressed? Yes, you guessed it. I wore shirts and a jacket with jeans every day except on the odd Friday when I changed my jacket to a jumper. I was the only one who dressed smart-casual. Did I feel like an outsider because of that? No. Everyone saw that I like to dress like that, and I emphasized that I feel better when I have a neat shirt on.
What about white shirts? Well, to me, that is the next level. I have always said that you dress not for the job that you have but for the job that you want. And at my previous job, I dressed for the EU institutions. Now, when I am here, I want to pay respect to my employer and dress accordingly. Also, I have always wanted a collection of white shirts.
A really good friend of mine suggested that I could order my shirts from his tailor. I did contemplate that a bit, but I decided that I need to get more miles under my belt to make that step. So, I ended up buying a couple at a decent men ‘s-wear shop. I have already worn one to work, and I do feel it. There is something special when you have a white shirt on.
That is the way to go now. White shirts. Dress for the job that you want, not for the job that you have. And make sure that you feel good about what you are wearing.
Kind regards,
Olaaf
