We get it. Tattoos are commonplace. We were at a soccer game just the other day and noticed a mom with a butterfly on her ankle. Nurses with arm tattoos working the hospital floor have become an everyday sight. But tattoos are now in the headlines thanks to a January 22, Sean Hannity interview with President Donald Trump when he stated, “There are people coming in with tattoos all over their face. Their entire face is covered in tattoos. Typically, you know, he’s not going to be the head of the local bank.” Ouch! These comments came after a discussion about criminals from other countries entering the U.S.
Many employers allow visible tattoos in the workplace. If you decide you’re okay with tattoos, you should probably consider implementing a policy. A detailed business policy can prevent problems, such as complaints about offensive images or discrimination. Establishing guidelines rather than completely banning workplace tattoos can also show that you value individuality, which could improve employee morale.
Are tattoos acceptable?
Tattoos are generally accepted in the workplace as long as they’re not offensive or unprofessional. The advice we generally give is, if you’re going to get a tattoo, make sure you can conceal it with a long-sleeved shirt. The reality is that visible tattoos may not be appropriate for every profession. Even if your company allows body art, you may find that customers are offended by tattooed employees.
Can professionals have tattoos?
Tattoos are often acceptable in professional settings, including positions in the medical and legal fields. These days, it’s not uncommon to see tattooed lawyers, nurses and even teachers.
But there are pros and cons for allowing tattoos in the workplace. Every business has its own culture, so an evaluation of hiring professionals with tattoos should be considered.
Here are some pros:
- Encourages individuality;
- Boosts morale;
- Projects a modern image;
- Opens up your hiring pool;
- Shows employees that you value skills over appearance.
But there are cons:
- Some stigmas still exist;
- Tattooed workers may face discrimination from clients.
Should you have a tattoo policy?
Such policies are not mandatory. For example, a family-owned business with a few workers can probably function without a policy. In addition, a tattoo policy may not be necessary if your team is on the same page about body art and your customers are laid-back. Think Whole Foods Market.
Information to consider
As an employer, you can establish policies regarding personal appearance. But you must be careful not to discriminate against workers or violate any religious rights.
Here are four topics to consider when addressing a tattoo policy.
1. Visible tattoos
Are all tattoos allowed, or are you only comfortable with ones that are not visible? Some employers ban tattoos on the face or neck but are okay with other visible areas. If your employees spend each day behind a desk, it may be okay with tattoos on the legs and feet.
2. Offensive tattoos
Be careful which tattoos are permitted in the workplace, as some body art, like some political t-shirts, may make others feel uncomfortable. A strong tattoo policy should ban images or words that promote illegal activities, hate speech or violence.
Offensive body art:
- Tattoos that bash religion or race;
- Tattoos with profanity;
- Tattoos of political figures;
- Tattoos of weapons or threats;
- Tattoos of nudity or sexual innuendos;
- Tattoos that promote drug or alcohol use.
In today’s culture, there’s no one-size-fits-all. While we tend to agree with President Trump that a face tattoo will likely not provide one with the inside track to bank president, it could be a comfortable fit in other professions. Consider your image and culture, and create guidelines that reflect your company’s identity.
The information and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only and are based on current practice, industry-related knowledge and business expertise. The information provided shall not be construed as legal advice, express or implied.