Reversing the Tattoo Taboo

By Rachel Nieves on January 25, 2016

Having a tattoo previously symbolized rebelliousness and angst, and would generally cause a person to be viewed as an “outsider” to society. The concern for many when it comes to tattoos is no longer how they will change in the eyes of their viewers, but instead that it might hinder their chances at getting a job (“but honey, what will your future employers think of the butterfly on the inside of your wrist? Do you know what butterflies can symbolize??”). Recently more and more Americans have gotten over their fear of needles. Over 40% of American adults have at least one tattoo, and the amount of people with 2 or more tattoos has doubled since 2007. While the popularity of tattoos continues to rise, adults contemplating their decision to go “under the needle” still hesitate. It’s not because of the actual image or the process of the tattoo itself, but how the tattoo will “brand” them (not in a fraternity hazing sense, but in a marketing and career path sense). “How will this tattoo affect my chances of getting a job?” asks almost every Millennial about to graduate college and venture out into the “real world.”

Judging from how different the workplace is starting to become, it probably won’t. A Careerbuilder survey found that 31% of employers said they would be less likely to extend a promotion to a candidate with visible tattoos, but bad breath (at 34 percent) weighed even heavier. This is shocking, because I always thought bad breath would be a lot higher on an employer’s checklist for candidate qualifications. Nonetheless, CEOs and Corporate Bros recognize the importance of individualism in the workplace, and it’s interesting to note that those who feel supported by their organization about their tattoo, body piercing, and even hair color choices are much happier at work.

So what is a Millennial to do? Do we wait until we retire to get the butterfly on our wrist like we’ve always wanted? New evidence shows there is no need to wait. While there is still tension surrounding the issues of tattoos in the workplace, the most important thing to remember is that life is like a box of chocolates; it’s all about moderation. University of Maryland senior Gabrielle Espinosa has two tattoos, one on her upper right shoulder and one on her lower left hip. When asked why she chose these specific locations she explained it was because they were easily concealed, and that she considered location based on future employment opportunities. “I didn’t want to miss out on a job because I couldn’t conceal my tattoos, but as I’ve gotten older I feel like I wouldn’t want to work for a company that discriminates based on an individual’s tattoos,” Espinosa said.

We’ve still got a long way to go towards complete acceptance of tattoos in the workplace, but we’re getting there, and as a famous tortoise once said: slow and steady wins the race.

If you really want a face or neck tattoo, or you’re itching for that arm sleeve, definitely consider seeking out companies with a more accepting culture surrounding tattoos. No matter what, go into a job interview with simple, positive answers if employers bring up your tattoos. For those of you with concealable tattoos in not so concealable places, makeup is your friend. Checkout a list of some of the best tattoo concealers available below, and Happy tat-ing!