Tattoos And Body Piercing In The Workforce

Tattoos and Body Piercing in the Workforce

What canvas holds some of the most creative artwork today? If you guessed the human skin, you would be right. However, about three decades ago, one would only find these types of markings and insignias on what would be considered the “rough” crowd: bikers, sailors, gang members, and prison inmates. Today; however, tattoos and piercings can be seen on nearly anyone from the age of 15 and up. Not to mention, these body modifications can be found on all types of workers, male or female, white and blue-collar. Even though times have changed and opinions along with it, the workforce is still making a firm stand to some older thoughts. Although, body art has become a more accepted form of individualistic expression; it will continue to suppress individuals’ chances of succeeding in a professional environment, because employers, clients, and customers still have a negative connotation associated with the presence of tattoos and piercings.

Expressions portrayed through body art in today’s society are becoming continuously more acceptable. However, not all agree to what extent of body modification is acceptable or where it is acceptable in today’s society. In fact, “According to career publisher Vault.com’s (www.vault.com) new Tattoo and Body Piercing Survey, 85 percent of survey respondents believe that tattoos and body piercings impede your chances of finding a job (OfficeSolutions, 2007). However, there does not seem to be any rhyme or reason culturally. According to a survey completed by American Demographics “When it comes to gender and race, body art appears to be an equal opportunity phenomenon. For example, 13 percent of men have or have had a tattoo or body piercing, compared with 18 percent of women. Similarly, Whites (18 percent), Blacks (16 percent), and Hispanics (14 percent) are almost equally likely to have embellished their birthday suits” (American Demographics, 2001). An individual’s age group is where one will find the most diversity. Body art is more common in young adults, as would be expected. It seems that there is a huge gap between young adults and older adults, as stated in the study performed by internet research firm Harris Interactive for American Demographics “16 percent of 18-24-year-olds and 15 percent of 25-29 year-olds. Conversely, none of the respondents who are 65 and older have or have ever had both a tattoo and piercing, and only 5 percent of senior citizens have a tattoo. However, it seems the preretirement group is a little more hip: 9 percent of those between the ages of 40 and 64 sport a tattoo” (American Demographics, 2001). However, visible body art is still considered risky by most Americans. American Demographics reports that 85% agree that individuals with visible tattoos or body piercings should be aware that this type of expression is likely to create obstacles in their career or personal goals.

How would you handle a prospective employee with perfect credentials and qualifications, covered with tattoos and piercings, entering your office for an interview? Which is more important the employee’s qualifications or the ink and metal in their skin? More employers are faced with such decisions everyday. Surprisingly, even though body modifications are becoming more popular and the acceptance is constantly climbing; employers are still moving slowly and with discretion dealing with the trend. Many employers require employees to cover visible tattoos and remove facial jewelry. In the study conducted by Vault, one survey respondent said: “Regardless of who the real person may be, stereotypes associated with piercings and tattoos can and do affect others. In general, individuals with tattoos and body piercings are often viewed as “rougher” or “less educated” (OfficeSolutions, 2007).” The National Association of Colleges and Employers found that the employers surveyed for Job Outlook 2002 were repelled by body piercings (72%), visible tattoos (69%), (HR Focus, 2004). Therefore, the best advice for any searching employee, with these body modifications, is to cover and remove until after the interview and the job is secured. Then find out what the company’s dress policy consists of; that company may be kosher with tattoos and piercings. However, as stated by John, Challenger of Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., “We may never see tattoos on bankers, lawyers, accountants and the clergy may be resistant to body art. As a job seeker, you have to judge whether the employer you are interviewing with is going to be accepting of your body art (Boyd, 2007).” Employers must make decisions based on what is best for his or her company. Even though the acceptance of body modification is on the rise, negative connotations still surround and stereotype this form of expression for many people in our society, specifically customers and clients.

A whopping number of the public still feel negatively about seeing body art in the workplace. In fact, studies reveal, “Among the general public, perceptions about those who choose to adorn their bodies run the gamut, although the most frequently mentioned adjective are “rebellious” and “experimental,” suggested by 67% of Americans, respectively (American Demographics, 2001).” Even more amazingly, 56% simply find tattoos and body art distasteful. In 65 year-olds and older, 57% describe body art as “freakish and 29% of 18-24 year-olds (American Demographics, 2001). So, do not expect to see any executives showing off their tattoos in the boardroom anytime soon. Which choice is more important, expression through body modification or a career? A question that many tattooed and pierced individuals must ask themselves.

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