Follow up to the uniform question

[Cindy]

Thanks for all the great replies about whether docents should wear uniforms. Now I have a follow up question.

Many of our docents have been at the museum for many years (5+) and are used to our current way of doing things. Do any of you have experience of trying to implement uniform requirements after many years of not having any? If so, how did it go over with existing volunteers and how long did it take for everyone to accept the new policy?

Thanks!
Cindy

[Matt Gunsch]

the best thing would be if a docent only deals with the public, ie giving tours and such, then a vest or something to make them stand out, but if they deal with the public and do other work that a vest would get in the way of, a t-shirt that says volunteer would work.
Vests could be kept at the museum and then they just attach a name tag when needed.

[bdk]

Do any of you have experience of trying to implement uniform requirements after many years of not having any?

Tell 'em to grow up? The museum has a positive image to portray, that of a well oiled and professional organization. To be a part of the team you need to dress like it. Who wants to donate money to an organization that looks uncaring and slipshod?

Or you could tell them that if they don't like to wear the uniform, female volunteers won't be required to wear tube tops as part of their new uniform requirements either.

Actually I just made that second part up. Could you tell?

[K225]

Why not get them involved in chosing the uniform, get them to buy into it as their own idea. I know at our organization we highlighted the history of our main project and the guys all bought into it. rather than being forced to do it give them the option you might be surprised at how quickly they come on board.

[JDK]

Why not get them involved in chosing the uniform, get them to buy into it as their own idea. I know at our organization we highlighted the history of our main project and the guys all bought into it. rather than being forced to do it give them the option you might be surprised at how quickly they come on board.

Absolutely.

Also, don't be negative towards those that don't want to adopt the uniform, just reward and be positive about those that do, and leave the door open for change.

One thing that's not clear through the thread, despite the otherwise excellent responses is who pays and who owns the gear. Some folks resent paying to volunteer, others can't, and you may have some who want to be there only if they can appear 'smart'. Cost, IMHO is the main practical issue for the organisation and the volunteers.

And, as some have pointed out, those turning wrenches need different gear. I don't do anything mechanical (to everyone's relief) but I do help clean the a/c when I can. We are issued blue overalls, with RAAF Museum written on the back for that.

HTH.

[planeoldsteve]

The CAF had implemented a new uniform recently and at least at the Dixie Wing some of the old timers are still up in arms about uniform change before this one. How can you tell some one in there eighties they can't wear that.(you can't you have to pick your battles) With the name change, the branding of aircraft and uniforms they have plenty to complain about. Just give them something else bigger to complain about and they will forget about the last one. What's the old line a B----ing Marine is a happy Marine!

Steve

[Mudge]

Explain to them that it's a matter of the public being able to recognize who works there and who doesn't. Many times at Udvar-Hazy, Smithsonian, etc., I've been quietly standing waiting for Mrs. Mudge and people come up to me and ask stuff about the museum. Yes, I CAN look officious at times.

Mudge the decent