Let me start by saying, I have tattoo's...LOTS.
I was lucky enough to be brought up in a liberal and creative environment, where if I wanted tattoos my parents were happy for me to get one at 18 (I sneaked off school and got my first at 16..ssshhhhhh)
The thing is though that i don't "get them out" in work, if i don't feel the situation is appropriate.
Why?
When it comes to work and interviews, my tattoos for me, are a burden occasionally...but a burden that I accepted when that needle first hit my forearm.
I have always believed in the fact that you have to respect that some people don't like tattoos. Its nothing personal, just a matter of opinion. And what a boring life we would live if we didn't have difference of opinion!
I don't think in every working situation tattoo's should be on show. Especially during an interview, business/client meetings etc. I judge the decision to show my tattoo's in the work place on a case by case basis, even though everyone knows i have them...maybe I'm paranoid or maybe even though i have tattoo's I still think like someone who doesn't?
BUT, it seems that in a climate where talented candidates are scarce, and job opportunities are a plenty, that the candidates are now actively choosing to only work for a business that truly embraces the diversity and inclusion of tattoos...
Maybe even my view point is now old fashioned......is yours?
Kirsten Davidson, Head of Employer Brand at Glassdoor, points out that lots of people look for companies that allow tattoos and piercings and general differences from the buttoned-down, traditional work attire. While unemployment is still high, smart companies battle over the best talent. Davidson says, "Labeling something taboo is dangerous for workplace transparency. When we look at companies rated highly for culture & values on Glassdoor, we often see employee feedback about feeling comfortable bringing their whole selves to work, or feeling free to be authentic. Among our own employee base, we have found this to be true as well. When we encourage people to be themselves, we foster creativity and innovation that is essential for producing the highest quality work."
