In the modern age, a lot of people assume that tattoos in the workplace are simply no problem anymore. We do see tattoos more than ever and if you head to a store, for example, it is no big surprise to see that the people working there have tattoos. However, there are certain industries where this is not expected, and many surgeons and doctors will stay clear of visible tattoos. So, in this guide, we explore if they are still an issue at all.
Are tattoos in the workplace acceptable?
Of course, there are lots of jobs where tattoos are allowed. For instance, body art and tattoo artists as well as those in the fashion industry can have tattoos and they can even form a big part of their look.
There are also lots of jobs such as working in warehouses, driving jobs, and more, where it doesn’t matter too much to most employers. Some high-profile employers have changed their policies to allow people to have whatever tattoos they want.
There are pros and cons to allowing people in your workplace to have ink and body art like this, and while historically a lot of industries would have not allowed this, the attitudes are changing.
Advantages of allowing tattoos in the workplace
There are several plus points of allowing people working in your company to have tattoos.
Promoting individuality
Allowing ink allows people to show things that they are passionate about or that they care about on their bodies. People are all individuals and tattoos are a way to express yourself.
Appealing to clientele
In certain jobs such as those that involve body art, the fashion industry, or the entertainment industry, tattoos may even add an appeal to customers. Famously, people in the Apple store are allowed to have tattoos and this might even add to the appeal, making it appear to be modern and forward-thinking.
Attracting a greater array of applicants
More people are likely to apply if you aren’t ruling out those who have tattoos and even potentially visible tattoos.
Inspiring creativity
It’s time to get creative. What would it say to your employees if you were a creative agency or a workplace that is forward-thinking but you don’t let people express themselves in this way? Tattoos can inspire creativity and draw creative people to your business.
Disadvantages of allowing tattoos in the workplace
There are some downsides too, but a lot of these come from peoples’ perception of tattoos.
Customers may not approve
Not all customers like tattoos and some of them even associate ink with negatives. There are even those people who think that all tattoos are in some way associated with gangs. We know this isn’t true and attitudes are changing, but perhaps not quickly enough.
Tattoos may promote an overly casual atmosphere
Some think that tattoos provide a more relaxed and therefore casual atmosphere, and think that this might not be the sort of image you want to give for some workplaces like a bank or a doctor’s surgery.
Tattoos might be distracting to some employees
Some employees might find them distracting, which is not likely to be a big issue but tattoos could be the source of some sort of discussion and not getting on with the task at hand.
Best Jobs That Allow Tattoos
There are a huge number of jobs where you can have tattoos. The issue is often about visible tattoos, too. This means that if you have ink that can be hidden easily enough, then you don’t have to worry too much about jobs. A tattoo on your lower back could be hidden by your shirt.
If you want a job that allows you to show off your ink then there are plenty of roles that you can look for.
A lot of retail jobs, barista roles, and working in the catering industry as well as entertainment industries tend to be more flexible. The sports and IT industries tend to be pretty accepting. The key is that each company has its policy, and you need to check these before you try to find a role. Tattoos don’t always have to be an issue.