Are Tattoos At Work Still An Issue in 2022?

Are you considering a tattoo but think it might be taboo in the workplace? Today, tattoos are becoming more popular, and there has been a shift in some current workplace policies. Many more people are deciding to ink their skin. If you want to know if tattoos in the workplace are still “an issue” in 2022, here are a few things you should consider.

Will Your Tattoos Affect Future Job Opportunities?

While tattoos are gaining in popularity, companies set appearance standards for their employees. Unfortunately, some employers might not take an applicant seriously if they have a tattoo, but those numbers are slowly dropping. The location of the tattoo will affect the applicant’s job opportunities, especially if the ink is on the face, neck, or hands. In the corporate world, those styles have a bad reputation as being associated with prison or gang ink. If you want to find the ideal placement for your new ink, talk to one of the Philadelphia tattoo shops in the area.

Have Industries Changed Their Outlook on Tattoos?

Over the years, the military and airline industries have been known for their strict tattoo policies. Fortunately, there have been changes in recent years. At one time, the U.S. military had a “25% rule” that prevented personnel from having over 25% of their body covered in tattoos. With these restrictions eliminated, service personnel can get tattoos in most places, except for the face, neck, and hands.

Along with the military, the airline industry is known for its strict dress codes. Pilots and flight attendants must always adhere to these policies, especially regarding tattoos. For the most part, no visible tattoos were allowed on flight attendants. United Airlines stated that “tattoos must never be visible while in uniform.” In September 2022, those limitations were removed, allowing personnel to have visible tattoos.

However, there are still restrictions on the ink. They cannot contain offensive writing, imagery, or obscene language. Plus, the ink must be smaller than a work badge. While United allows tattoos, they still have restrictions for those who work in customer-facing positions. These employees cannot have tattoos on their faces, neck, or hands.

Even the healthcare industry is starting to change its restrictions on tattoos. There was a study involving emergency care patients. Over 75% of them said that visible tattoos on medical care professionals would not affect their opinion of the person. Patients just want to receive a high level of medical attention. With that in mind, patients are not concerned about the appearance of their healthcare provider.

Instead, they want someone with the skills and training to deliver high-quality care. Some healthcare companies don’t have restrictive policies regarding tattoos, while others still have limitations. The changing attitudes of patients could lead to no tattoo restrictions for healthcare professionals in the future.

Tattoos and Company Policies

There is no set policy for tattoos. These rules will depend on the individual companies and industries. Over the years, most industries have accepted tattoos in the workplace, including the military, airlines, law enforcement, and healthcare sectors. Despite that, many businesses continue to have strict policies in place. However, about 46% of younger Americans have tattoos. If the trend continues, companies may be forced to loosen their policies or choose applicants from a smaller candidate pool. The percentage of U.S. adults with tattoos has doubled since 2013. In some cases, these companies prefer hiring those with tattoos, especially in the creative field.

Tattoo policies depend on the job, but many industries are slow to accept change. Even if they have strict limitations, not all tattoos, such as the face, neck, or hand ink, have become acceptable in the corporate space. When it comes time to apply for a job, check out those specific standards. In most cases, the employer will not ask about tattoos as long as candidates present themselves in a professional manner.

Tattoos and Discrimination in the Workplace

Today, tattoos are known as the ultimate form of self-expression and individuality. Some industries can benefit from hiring those individuals with tattoos. People who are inked can appeal to a specific clientele. By allowing tattoos in the workplace, companies can promote diversity and be inclusive of other cultures. Those organizations that allow tattoos can attract various applicants, foster stronger workplace relationships, and encourage creativity. While no one wants to claim discrimination in the workplace, having strict restrictions can limit the applicant pool, especially for minorities. In a recent survey, racial minorities are more likely to have tattoos than Caucasians. Tattoo discrimination can hurt racial and ethnic diversity in the workplace.

The Future of Tattoos in the Workplace

The opinion about body ink is starting to change in the workplace. Accepting tattoos is slowly becoming the norm rather than a taboo subject. Companies are beginning to choose candidates based on their skills rather than appearance. Tattooed individuals bring diversity and creativity, boosting a company’s culture. Many businesses strive to create an inclusive environment for their employees. With that in mind, many recent job advertisements have encouraged those with tattoos to apply for positions.

Things To Consider Before Getting Tattooed

While many workplaces are more accepting of tattoos, you will want to consider a few things before scheduling a session. You should think about the tattoo’s placement. For those who want a tattoo on the hands, face, or neck, you need to know that these are considered radical for most employers. If you want to work in the corporate or customer service industries, you could have a hard time finding a job. Some companies will have strict restrictions, especially on “aggressive” tattoo placement. Before permanently changing your skin, ensure you understand those tattoos’ potential consequences. You do not want to “be stuck” with ink that could limit your career opportunities.

Need Local Tattoo Shops Near Me?

If you are ready to get inked, schedule an appointment with Oracle Tattoo Gallery. Our tattoo artists specialize in a variety of designs, and we can find a style that will not interfere with your current working situation. Schedule a consultation by calling 215-638-1601.