Introduction
Tattoos are not just ink on one’s body; they are a form of art and the individual’s method of self-expression. They express unique dates and events in the person’s life. Although there is a belief that one’s body is one’s temple so one can decorate it differently, tattoos have been debated, especially in the workplace. Hiring policies should allow tattoos since they do not affect anybody’s competence and productivity but highlight the employee’s self-actualization and uniqueness.
Why Tattoos Should Be Allowed in the Workplace
The restriction of tattoos in the workplace undermines the globalized world’s fundamental principles – diversity and inclusivity. When job applicants undergo the recruitment process, they frequently face stigmatization, which should be eliminated to protect everyone’s right to choose. The associate professors and authors of the article “The Relationship Between Tattoos and Employee Workplace Deviance” – Tews and Kathryn – state that 29% of Americans are tattooed. In comparison, 70% have more than two tattoos. Hence, the number of applicants judged by their ink is relatively high. Managers should avoid this unfair treatment by valuing diverse candidates who might contribute to their companies.
Another compelling reason for allowing tattoos is to support workers’ creativity. Even the belief mentioned in Tews and Kathryn’s article that body arts relates to gangs and unreliable individuals underestimates the importance of cultural adaptability. Instead, tattoos reflect employees’ beliefs and experiences, while working in a nourishing environment is beneficial. As evidence suggests, when employees are free to express their authentic selves, they generate better potential (Tews and Kathryn). Therefore, managers should allow employees to stand out and be innovative.
Some might argue that tattoos harm the organization’s image and professionalism. They believe tattoos still express rebellion and a lack of seriousness, which might be detrimental in the white-collar sector (Tews and Kathryn). These people highly value strict dress codes to adhere to corporate culture. However, their view undermines that one’s appearance does not determine one’s skills and work ethic, as the worker with a tattoo might be equally obedient and successful.
Conclusion
The arguments for allowing tattoos in the workplace are compelling since they support employees’ inclusivity and equality. More importantly, they result in creativity and self-expression, as they do not determine the specialist’s professionalism and work productivity. The central idea is that allowing tattoos in the workplace extends beyond body art and ink, as it symbolizes a cultural acceptance and innovative environment where everyone’s self-expression is valued.
Work Cited
Tews, Michael J., and Kathryn Stafford. “The Relationship Between Tattoos and Employee Workplace Deviance.” Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research, vol. 43, no. 7, 2019, pp. 1025-1043. Web.
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