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Let’s Talk Tattoos

By May 11, 2016December 16th, 2022HR

According to an October 2015 The Harris Poll, 29% of the U.S. population has at least one tattoo. Nearly half of Millennials have at least one and more women than men are tattooed.

What is your company’s policy regarding “body art?” Whether you have one in place or need to develop one, here are a few things to consider:

  • Does your policy reflect your business/brand?
  • Does the policy fit your type of employee? (Remember, all employees in similar jobs must fall under the same policy.)
  • Does your policy allow for “reasonable accommodations” such as religious beliefs?
  • How would the policy play out if your best employee violated it? Your worst employee?
  • What are the minimum standards of professionalism you are willing to accept?

It’s best to avoid a policy that’s too rigid and likely outdated such as banning tattoos in the workplace altogether. Tattoos have become a popular form of self-expression and it’s safe to say that you’ll see more and more job candidates come through your door with decorative ink on their bodies. Embracing them, within reason, is probably better for business which more often thrives in an environment that embraces creativity, diversity, innovation, etc. – at the end of the day.

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