The truth is that tattoos have become more common – and more widely accepted – in recent years. People of all ages are going under the needle, and celebrity tattoos have certainly fueled the fad. However, that doesn't mean that everyone approves of ink. In fact, some industries are still somewhat opposed to visible tatts in the workplace, meaning that individuals who already have body art could be faced with a dilemma: Find a way to cover up their inkings, consider tattoo removal methods or risk losing an opportunity. In other words, tatts can actually hinder a professional's career growth if they're in a particular field. In fact, a study by CareerBuilder.com found that 37 percent of HR managers cite body art as the No. 3 attribute most likely to negatively affect a candidate's potential.
So which industries are less likely to look kindly on tattoos?
The arts
If you're sporting a lot of ink, you shouldn't have to worry about getting a job in the creative realm. Joshua Coburn, a 32-year-old marketing professional for Brownells, Inc., told Diversity MBA magazine that companies in fields such as entertainment, graphic design, writing, architecture or interior decorating tend to be OK with body art because it expresses creativity and individuality. That doesn't mean every single company in this industry will be accepting of tatts, however. Some hiring managers may worry about the impact staff members' body art will have on the organization's image. This can be a particular problem for client-facing personnel like customer service agents or receptionists.
Education
What about teachers having tatts? Parents might complain that it's a bad message to send their children, who they want to remain ink-free. After all, educators are considered role models to students, and they could influence their decision to go under the needle. According to Corridor Business, Cedar Rapids School District in Iowa doesn't have a specific policy on body art, but can still discourage revealing ink on a case-by-case basis. Sue Wilber, the district's lead human resources specialist, explained that the idea is to avoid anything that could be a distraction for students or disrupt learning.
Law
If you're aiming to be a judge or a lawyer, ink could be an issue. Tat2X explained that while attorneys may have tatts, they certainly cannot show them off in the court room. While this might not be a challenge for those with body art in a hidden place, those with designs in visible locations, such as the neck or wrist, may need to consider laser tattoo removal. The source noted that even support staff members, like clerks and secretaries, are expected to either be tatt-free or cover them up to maintain a professional image. Similarly, professionals striving to work in politics may find that visible tattoos impact their reputations. In fact, those who work in the military – especially the Army – face ever-tightening restrictions regarding ink.
Health care
One of the toughest industries for tatted up professionals is health care. Many hospitals, clinics and offices have strict policies about body art, which usually dictate that no etchings can be visible to patients. Corridor Business reported that Unity Point Health-St. Luke's in Sioux City, Iowa, for example, demands that ink is covered up of it could be interpreted as prejudicial. Mercy Medical Center also has a policy that discourages tatts. Ultimately, it's up to management to ask that body art be concealed. However, tatts that offend patients, whether words or images, are prohibited.
Hospitality
How acceptable body art is in the workplace at a hotel or resort depends largely on the company and the position. For example, many corporate chains may have stricter rules about appearance, which will include dress, piercings and tattoos, as do higher end luxury resorts. Still, some smaller businesses may be more lax about employees sporting certain designs. Staff members who don't deal directly with guests may be allowed to show ink, whereas a concierge or room service worker may not.
In a recent survey, a whopping 76% of respondents feel tattoos and piercings hurt an applicant's chances of being hired during a job interview*. Don't let your tattoo ruin your chances of landing that dream job. Tattoos can be erased faster and with fewer treatments with PicoSure®: the latest breakthrough in laser tattoo removal. Visit www.picosurear.wpengine.com to learn more and find a PicoSure Practitioner near you.
*Source: www.salary.com