The ink effect: tattoos and the job market

Are you thinking about “getting ink done?” Do you wonder how it will be seen through professional eyes? The place of tattoos in the professional environment has begun to evolve as more Americans are getting “ink.” Employers hold differing views on what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to tattoos, but many feel that it is now a normal human element. “They are almost completely mainstream at this point,” Todd Dewett, Ph.D., a professor of management at Wright State and tattoo enthusiast, said. Dewett is an author, a radio host, and the creator of a leadership coaching website. He sports and supports the freedom to wear tattoos and believes that they should not interfere with the hiring process, most of the time. “Tattoos should not be a factor in hiring decisions, with two exceptions,” Dewett said.  “One, the person will be in a customer facing role and you have very strong reasons to believe that your customer base will not appreciate body art such as tattoos.  Two, the tattoos are outside of prevailing mainstream norms.  For example, facial tattoos are widely considered extreme and likely should factor in to hiring decisions.” According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 36 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 have at least one tattoo, and 40 percent between ages 26 and 40. Despite the growing percentage of tattoos in the country, many professionals view tattoos as a negative quality. “Today, typically heavy tattooing and extreme tattoos are still strongly stigmatized in most industries,” Dewett said. “Some firms, such as CPA firms, might err towards a very conservative appearance and shun all tattooing.” Though many view tattoos as a direct act of rebellion, there are positive reasons for getting a tattoo, which include the presentation of one’s interests and values, or the honoring of a friend or loved one, according to Dewett. For those thinking about inking up, Dewett delivered some advice. “The best advice I can give anyone is to be slow and prudent, not rash when thinking about getting ink,” Dewett said. “The more you are established and the better your performance track record, the more latitude you will be given to be expressive.  Always think carefully about the prevailing social norms in the company or industry you target.”