Why your tattoo can keep you unemployed

You are in love, so you tattoo the name of your boyfriend or girlfriend on your body for everyone to see. You get such great feedback from friends that you get another tattoo and then maybe even a tongue piercing; but are you setting yourself up for job failure?{{more}}

Many years ago, tattoos and body piercings were worn by people that society would consider to be outcasts or misfits; but that’s not the case today. Body tattoos and piercings have become quite popular among young people and even the young at heart. They are considered to be an outlet for individuals to express their creativity and individuality. However, companies regard visible tattoos and body piercings as a violation of their dress code and an obstacle to creating a comfortable environment for their customers.

Most companies allow ear piercings, one or two holes; however, multiple holes adorned with large hoop earrings can pose a safety risk, depending on the job. Companies do not want to risk injury to an employee just because an employee wants to make a fashion statement. Lip, tongue, nose and belly rings are also popular, but again customers are often repulsed by the sight of these piercings if they are exposed.

Tattoos are simply a distraction. Companies work hard to project a clean professional image and attract a certain clientele, and a tattooed worker probably does not fit into that image. It’s important for customers to feel comfortable when spending their money, and they should not be subjected to looking at an employee’s expression of body art, especially those selections that can be offensive, such as a skull, demons or strategically placed tattoos that create illusions.

1. Before you get a tattoo, be careful about the choice of the tattoo you get and be selective in its placement on your body.

2. Place tattoos in areas that can be easily covered by clothing.

3. If you have a tongue, nose or multiple ear piercings, remove the adornments when going on interviews or while on the job. Cover up the belly ring.

4. Companies have the right to refuse to hire you or even fire you if your tattoo or body piercing violates their dress code.

5. If you already have a tattoo that is hindering your progress at work, there is now tattoo make-up designed to cover tattoos for a day. You will need to apply it daily to hide the tattoo.

6. If you are young and have not yet established a career, be especially careful about what kind of tattoo or body piercing you get, as you never know what kind of career you may desire later in life.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on Avoiding Career Killers in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com

Visit online at www.workplacesuccess.com