18 July 2008

Tattoos in the Workplace

Tattoos have become much more popular in the U.S. over the past several years. Particularly amongst the younger crowd between 18 and 30, tattoos and body piercings are far more common than they were even just five or six years ago. In fact, according to a survey released last month by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, roughly 50 percent of Americans in their twenties have at least one tattoo and/or body piercing other than their ears.

Subsequently, many employers are now faced with the question of whether or not to update their dress codes, especially if they wish to attract much of the younger talent in the workforce. While there is nothing uniform in terms of corporate policies, many employers who have limited interaction with clients are becoming more tolerant of exposed tattoos and piercings.

Fortunately for many HR professionals, that same Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology study states that only 15 percent of tattoos are on the neck, face, or hands and that facial piercings can generally be removed when at work. Most younger workers have no issue hiding their tattoos and piercings under their clothing.

While we respect the individual freedoms this great country allows, younger people in particular should keep in mind that tattoos are fairly permanent. The laser surgery to remove them is both expensive and painful. Multiple treatments are needed to fully remove a tattoo. People considering more visible tattoos in particular should bear in mind that their choice today may limit their employment options in the future.

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