Dress Code for Church Techs
Did you know that there is a dress code for church techs?
I know this sounds like a trivial topic, but it is an important consideration that I’ll explain in a minute. Some industry professionals will chime in and say that you can wear anything you want, as long as it’s black. That’s probably an okay place to start for production environments, but there are some additional things to think about when it comes to “dressing for success” in the tech team.
As a behind the scenes technical team member, you should not be wearing anything that makes you stand out (Your service is what should be outstanding!). This especially goes for production environments where you may be operating backstage or off to the side. Wearing black clothing (or at least a black shirt with blue jeans) will help you stay out of the spotlight.
And the front of house mix engineer isn’t off the hook either! You are probably the most visible member of the sound team. Dress like you care about the responsibility you have accepted.
Yeah, I know. This sounds like a prep school lecture. But hear me out.
You are serving in an important ministry.
Being intentional with the way you dress for the job – even a volunteer position – can go a long way in setting a professional example of excellence for the rest of your ministry team and congregation.
Rule #1:
No sweatpants or tank tops.
Duh. It may be helpful to follow the lead of other ministry teams or consult your leadership if you’re unclear about any baseline expectations.
Rule #2:
Choose clothing that allows you to efficiently perform your duties.
If you’re carrying lots of gear and handling a lot of cable, you may need jeans (and gloves). Your clothing should allow you to move around comfortably and safely without getting in the way of doing your work.
Rule #3:
No shirts with large logos or text.
It’s distracting and unprofessional. You are there to run sound/video/etc, not to be a walking billboard. There is an exception for those following the “Team Tip” noted below.
Suggested Tweet: "You should not be dressed so you stand out more than your service. @james_wasem"
Rule #4:
If you are doing a special production (or if your worship service is more production oriented), wear black.
Black pants and a black shirt. I will personally wear a long sleeved black shirt for production environments. It’s just more professional looking.
Rule #5:
Wear shoes that help you do your job in safety and comfort.
Are you standing when you mix? Wear shoes that allow you to stand comfortably. Moving around backstage? Do not wear shoes with heels that click and clack around the stage. That’s just annoying and disruptive. And no open-toed footwear if you plan to be moving gear around. Be safe and protect your body – it is a temple. Remember?
Team Tip:
If you have a technical team, consider getting shirts that have your church logo and say “sound team” or “tech team” on them.
You may even want to print something on the back that says something like: “Ask me how to join the team!” This can be a great recruiting tool for your team ministry. Just make sure your shirts are appropriate for your church community and are not a distraction in your worship environment.
Ok, that should get you started in the right direction.
It is up to you to be intentional and professional with the way you serve and the way you dress while doing it.
Suggested Tweet: "Be intentional and professional with the way you serve and how you dress while doing it.@james_wasem"
