Tattoos are something that people always seem to have strong opinions about. Whether they are for them and think everyone has a right to do what they want to their body, or against them and still hold on to their aging societal values, people seem steadfast in their opinions. Some people fail to acknowledge that societal norms and culture change. What they previously thought of as abnormal may very well soon be the norm, and perceptions about tattoos are a perfect example.
A common argument against having tattoos, spoken majoritively by boomers, is that tattoos hinder one’s ability to get a job. While this argument might have been true 50 years ago, it certainly isn’t the case now.
Surveys show that over 48 percent of people in the United States have at least 1 tattoo, and the current unemployment rate is around 3.6 percent. The fact is, people with tattoos have just the equal chance of getting jobs as anyone else does. In fact, some people believe having a tattoo could actually increase one’s chances during the hiring process.
There are employers who are looking for someone who stands out from the rest of the applicants. Someone who expresses themselves and is confident in who they are as a person. Now that doesn’t mean just because you have a tattoo you have a free pass to a job, but it also doesn’t mean that you’re gonna be homeless either.
Just as tattoos do not necessarily hinder one’s ability to get a job, they can actually increase your value as an employee. Many jobs require people to establish a personal connection with their clients, customers, or coworkers. Tattoos are not only a great conversation starter, but they also allow others to get a glimpse of your personality.
This “ice breaker” may make it easier for people to talk and open up to you. One job which tattoos definitely increase an employees value is, of course, a tattoo artist. Tattoo artists are the ones who provide the works of art so customers are seeking, it would stand to reason that they have them as well.
Consider any career that requires sales, customer service, and networking. These positions require the employee to be approachable, open, and exuding an appearance of honesty and loyalty. A person who has tattoos gives an impression of someone who is secure in who they are, open minded, and fearless. These qualities are attributes that can boost sales and create lasting customer relationships, as well as prove to be successful in managing others in the workplace.
Tattoos used to be taboo but are now just a social norm. A way for people to express themselves. They don’t hinder your ability to get a job and actually can open doors for you as a valued employee. The perception of tattooed people is getting changed for the better every day as more and more people begin to realize that this form of self expression is embraced by a growing segment of our population.