To wear or not to wear, that is the question. I was in chiropractic college during the mid-1970s, a period when changes not only were taking place in our profession, but also around the world. At that time, there was a rebellion in clothing wear amongst the students. Males were wearing white shirts, dress slacks, and that all-important piece of cloth around the neck called the necktie.

The necktie has been a staple of professional dress for men many years longer than our profession has been in existence. As fashion trends have changed, one of the most noticeable changes has been whether or not to wear the tie. In most circles of influence it's still a requirement that shows an authoritative tone.

When I went back to one of the colleges and sat in on a class, I felt a little bit like an insurance agent sitting in a room full of students looking at me, wondering if I was one of those "old guys" about to get up and do the "when I was your age" thing.

Well, the years have gone by and I can only speak from experience. I've worn a tie throughout my career — as a matter of fact, I have one on as I write this column. I think if you have worked hard to be a doctor of chiropractic that you should be able to wear whatever you like to the office. At the same time, I believe your patients deserve better.

The great controversy has heated up because lifestyle changes have, for the most part, made us far more relaxed in our work attire than ever before. Open shirts, jeans, tennis shoes, and shorts, have become what doctors are tending to wear in their offices. For men, neckties, sport coats, white shirts and even polished shoes are passe.

Those of us still in what is now labeled the "old guard" consider a shirt and tie to be important in making that first good impression on patients. What about all of the potential patients you come in contact with? You not only make an impression about you, but also about the profession that deserves to have an uplift in its image.

I can't emphasize the absolute importance of dressing your best at all times when you are in your office or out in the public. (Obviously, this goes for female doctors as well, even though this month I'm dwelling on the male dress symbol — the necktie.)

Chiropractic's image is at stake and it's imperative that we lead the profession into its rightful place in health care. Take time as a young doctor and go out into your town or city to find the D.C. who may be influential. You'll be looking for the chiropractor who creates the most community service and has the largest outreach to the most people.

Surely, it isn't all about attire, but I know that when I'm dressed nicely it seems doors open up that may have not opened before. Try it for yourself. Astound your patients, and have them ask you what the special occasion is. You can tell them that they are the special occasion. Wear this piece of cloth called the necktie (and women, dress UP) for the next 30 days in your practices, and I guarantee that your retention and your authority with your patients will increase.

The World Chiropractic Alliance Council on Chiropractic Mentoring exists to help new doctors get a head start in their practices. Get involved with us. Join us in creating the image that we as chiropractors rightfully deserve. Our future and the future of the next generation of doctors will depend on it.