May 8, 2021
Why Are Tattoos So Polarizing in the Workplace?
If you are in a workspace which encourages informal dress code, where shorts and t-shirts are in full force, then there is a high probability that you will find colleagues with tattoos (ink collectors) as well.
Even though one out of five people have a tattoo, many professionals still feel insecure to reveal their body art at their workplace due to the fear of losing their job or being discriminated. This is often understandable if your tattoo happens to be on your chest or lower back because even the foremost relaxed office dress codes typically prohibit revealing attire. However, many of us who have tattoos on our forearms are often hesitant to roll up our shirtsleeves on a hot day for fear of exposing their ink.
Why? While polls and numbers reflect the varying perspectives towards tattoos within the workplace, it still asks the question of why some feel the way they do.
Over 30 years ago, just one out of 100 individuals had a tattoo. Compare that to the present day, we are highly likely to run into more people who have tattoos in their body than those who do not. Tattoos were commonly associated with convicts or deviants in the past and the older generation grew up with that opinion which remains the same even to this day. The quality of tattoos has vastly improved in the modern era, which has largely contributed to a positive perception on tattoos and its industry.
The art of tattooing itself was illegal in numerous states and cities. New York City, seemingly the most metropolitan city within the world, prohibited tattooing from 1961 until 1997. The ban was based on the opinion that unsterile practices may have pushed to an epidemic of hepatitis B, marking tattoos and their wearers as a potential carrier of illness.
Today, tattoo parlors are among a number of the cleanest and most-regulated establishments around the world. Numerous practices are surrounding the sterilization of equipment, inks, and even handling clients. According to a study, men and women feel more confident and report having higher self-esteem after getting tattoos since they now have a piece of art on their body which makes them feel unique.
Attitudes about tattoos and tattooing have changed as the art itself has evolved. Many people have used tattoos to transform their surgery or mastectomy scars, turning the struggle they have gone through into something they think is beautiful. Some people get meaningful words or signatures of loved ones inked on their skin. Others get photorealistic portrait tattoos of deceased loved ones, carrying a picture on their skin along with many fond memories.
I think it might be nice to live in a world where we’re judged on the skills and the individual qualities, rather than the clothing or art with which we elect to beautify our bodies. There is not much difference between a tattoo and a colorful birthmark. If someone can express themselves or more importantly, be themselves they will do their best work and be an excellent resource to their team and clients.
By Ritch Tranchell, a tattoo enthusiast and Account Manager at FUDGE™.
