By: Dina Usanovic
Millennials and Gen-Zs have tested the limits regarding body alterations. As Millennials entered the workforce with an affinity for tattoos, society questioned whether such body adornments were unprofessional. With the increase in tattoos seen in society, it’s time to evaluate their effect on professional life.
Many employers used to feel that tattoos were unprofessional and looked poor. It was common for employees to be asked to cover visible tattoos or take out piercings deemed unprofessional. However, our society has accepted piercings and tattoos as self-expressions and windows into the soul.
In 2018, the University of Miami conducted a study in which they deemed that those with tattoos are “no less likely to be unemployed than their inked counterparts.” With time, tattoos are becoming more acceptable in the workplace.
That being said, there needs to be a happy medium. It will be a long time before large facial tattoos are widely accepted in business settings. While tattoos are becoming more acceptable, it is important to consider placement and visual effects. We consider dainty tattoos cute, while we sometimes consider large tattoos scary.
It seems to be beneficial to place tattoos in spots that would hide in an office or keep tattoos relatively small and in good taste. The modern improvements in acceptability and inclusivity have given tattoos and piercings a place in society and the professional realm. These alterations to one’s body have become self-expressions as opposed to alarming sights. However, it is important to keep in mind the limits of these improvements when considering where to get a tattoo or piercing.