Think Before You Ink

By Deborah O’Connor

 

Tattoo sleeves, ink on your neck, the infamous tramp stamp, odd body piercings, the list  goes on. ‘What were they thinking’ is a common response because body ink and piercings are becoming more common. Not just a little bit here and there, but exponentially more common. The face of the American worker is changing, and about 36% of young Americans in their 20’s have a piercing (other than traditional earrings) and tattoos. So what is going on in offices and what policies are being adopted? Results vary among industries and the stereotypical worker is constantly changing.

 

• Imagine that you are in a group interview for a great job. Everyone is dressed appropriately, including you. However, your hand tattoo is visible, proudly displaying your fraternity’s letters. And the great idea to get a small snake tattooed on your neck doesn’t seem so great right now. You need to think before you ink!

 

• Body art can be distracting in the workplace, especially around conservative customers and investors. It can make people nervous, making them wonder if your choices in tattooed employees is the same as your investment strategies.

 

• Many feel that as long as your ‘masterpieces’ are covered at work, it is no one else’s business. An example would be a large tattoo on your bicep, your favorite ‘inspiration’ on your back, and your fraternity symbols around your ankle. All of these can be covered by clothing.

 

• Some industries are actually tattoo/body art friendly. Artsy offices, design firms, coffee shops, some hair and make-up salons are among a wide group that is very accepting of these things. They usually cater to a younger demographic and actually welcome the creativity.

 

• Traditional coat-and-tie offices usually want all anomalies hidden and are very upfront about it in the interview. If a dress code is in writing and part of the hiring process, it can be strictly enforced, as long as it treats men and women equally.

 

• While you cannot be fired for having tattoos or body piercings, an employer is allowed to have grooming and appearance rules. It can state that as long as you cover them with clothing, you can work there. However, if you show up for work with tattoos showing or a tongue piercing flashing every time you speak, you can be fired.

 

• There are numerous health hazards associated with tattoos and body piercings.

 

• Cleanliness is of the utmost importance when being inked or pierced
• Allergic reactions are not uncommon
• Blood borne diseases like HIV, Tetanus, Hepatitis B & C and TB, while uncommon, can be a factor
• MRI complications can arise with determining accurate readings when you are heavily inked
• Keloids, an overgrowth of scar tissue, can occur
• There is definite pain involved

 

Think before you make any permanent decision to tattoo or pierce your body. Remember, this is not a short-term decision, it will last a lifetime.

 

 

 

Please feel free to send questions to Deborah at: www.successfulimage.biz.

She will answer them in her weekly column.

 

 

Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skills necessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contact at:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz