Quick thoughts on a top trending Linkedin post entitled, “A face tattoo at work?” and The Guardian’s article entitled, “The rise of jobstoppers: should face tattoos be banned?” Tattoos have become mainstream with almost 1/3 of all Americans having one of more somewhere. This proves America has significantly accepted tattoos, and I believe most other forms of bodily expressions. Tattoos are less normalized in Christian and Muslim communities, as they both believe tattoos change God’s image and their bodies, which are God’s temple to bring Him glory alone. Very conservative Christians affirm the Old Testament verse in Leviticus 19:28 that says, “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.” Some tattoos attempt to give God glory by the images of crosses or other religious symbols.
My experience is that tattoos used to be a “no-no” in the workplace, so folks covered them up at least until hired. Today, most American workplaces look more than skin deep, few even ask about a tattoo, and some conservative companies that had policies against tattoos have changed those positions even publicly (e.g., Disney). After interviewing and hiring thousands and being on panels where tattoo discussions occurred with candidates, and behind closed doors regarding candidates, I can share this. Some tattoos elicit fear, especially ones associated with gangs or violence. Some think of them as tramp stamps, while others are very accepted in artsy communities. Companies are greatly concerned with their image and what a tattooed employee seems to advertise or reflect of them, so can still swing an interview, as can many things. So, clearly having a front-and-center face tattoo will narrow certain employment opportunities. Most with face tattoos are bold enough to not care and do not desire to work in a job where their self-expression is restricted. Tattoos reflect an image you at some time in your life attempted to reflect, and not all, maybe not even you one day, may want that expression as your first impression, and sometimes last. So, don’t jump into tattoos face-first without expecting different reactions in a job search or any other area of life. What is your advice?
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