In May 2022, Virgin Atlantic became the first UK airline (and one of few worldwide) to allow cabin crew to display their tattoos, marking a shift in workplace values and tolerance of tattooed employees.
For thousands of years, cultures around the world have celebrated the art of tattooing. But in recent history — specifically in the Western workplace — they’re considered taboo. Even though around 40% of the US workforce has a tattoo, many companies have policies that require employees to hide their ink, and only 12% of people report feeling comfortable enough to show them off.
But are tattoos becoming more accepted in professional environments? Or will some industries never get with the times?
Join Lamar Street Tattoo Club as we examine the taboos surrounding office ink and the most favorable industries for every tattoo lover out there.
Have attitudes towards tattoos really changed?
Tattoos are much more accepted than they were ten years ago. As societal rules and norms have become more relaxed, workplace values have (thankfully) followed. The increased tolerance of casual attire, piercings, and tattoos comes primarily from the recent influx of Millennials and Gen Z in the workplace.
As workforce age demographics continue to shift, the younger generations’ “laid-back” attitudes toward body art and appearances will continue to filter into professional environments.
Most Gen Z members are truly digital natives, hence the name ‘Zoomers’ (get it? Because they zoom the internet? Okay, I’m done, moving on). They were raised on technology and probably don’t remember a life without it. Zoomers share their entire lives online, but no matter how much it may annoy you, it does have some pros. The more tattoos and body art people see, the more it becomes normalized in our society. The more tattoos are normalized, the more they’re generally accepted. See? Everyone wins.
I Wouldn’t Hide My Tattoos For Anyone… Where Can I Work?
Whether you don’t want to hide your tattoos or you only want to work for someone who values your individuality and creative freedom, you have some options.
Employers are free to decide their tattoo policy, as there are no laws against tattoos in the workplace or tattoo-based workplace discrimination. Whether or not a company allows tattoos sometimes depends on the industry, but it varies from place to place.
If you have tattoos you can’t (or won’t) cover, here are your best bets:
- Creative jobs, including graphic design, hair styling, and anything in the arts
- Skilled labor and contracting jobs like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work
- Public safety occupations like firefighters, paramedics, and police officers
- Restaurant and service industry jobs
- Most remote positions
Many people have culturally significant body art that is part of their core identity. And while it may be challenging to find a position with visible tattoos, their cultural or ethnic importance is not something you should have to compromise. Before applying to an open position, read employee reviews about the company to ensure they prioritize diversity and value the need to represent your culture openly.
The Cover-Up
If you don’t mind covering up your ink for the workday — and don’t want to wait for the times to change — your employment options are pretty much unlimited.
But as mentioned above, every company is different, and studying a company’s tattoo policy before going to an interview or starting a new job is always a safe bet. If you feel like your visible tattoos are hurting your chances of securing a job you’re passionate about, you always have the option of removal.
Trusted Tattoo Removal (and Expert Application) at Lamar Street Tattoo Club
Want to celebrate your new job with another tattoo? Need to get an old one removed before your search? Either way, count on expert execution at Lamar Street Tattoo Club.
From consultation to aftercare, we ensure a clean, professional experience. We don’t compromise on our work, and neither should you.
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club and see why we’re voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas. Send us a message, or book your complimentary consultation today!