THE very sight of a snake or skull on one’s arm can be a deal breaker for many, be it for employment or social engagement. The stigma which has been tied to body art may never fully diminish. However, an increasing number of young adults are out to prove that one should never be judged by a little ink. And employers are realising that they shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.
The Malaysian Association of Brand and Image Consultants (MABIC) president and professional brand image consultant Wendy Lee said there was definitely a shift in the acceptance of tattoos and piercings in the workplace today.
“I’m beginning to see more and more corporate executives sporting tattoos and body piercings, not only in relaxed workplaces, like retail outlets and restaurants, but also in stricter work environments, such as financial institutions.
“I’ve even noticed bankers having small tattoos at the back of their necks or hidden underneath their collars, and hoteliers with a little body art on their ankles.”
Lee said the stigma of body art being gang related was slowly but surely fading.
“Previously, body art acted as a cue to indicate which gang one belonged to, for instance, the Japanese mafia used tattoos to symbolise Yakuza-organised crime syndicates. Tattoos were so prevalent among gang members that many were forced to register their body ink with the police.
“But as gangsterism started to lose its place in modern society, there has been a noticeable decline in the association of tattoos with ‘bad boys’.”
Today, body art has become a fashion statement and accessory, she said, adding that celebrities had revolutionised the art of body ink and piercings, making it part of pop culture, rather than a taboo subject matter.
However, not all employers were ready to accept this change, Lee cautioned.
“Even though tattoos are becoming part of a social norm, it’s important to remember that some employers aren’t adapting to tattoos and piercings as fast as others. Place of work and job function play a huge factor in how body art and piercings are perceived.
“Do keep in mind that when you apply for a job, you must impress the employer, so always keep their expectations a priority. Every organisation has its own culture, every employer will have his or her own preference.”
Lee said job hunters needed to strike a balance between their choice of body art and what’s socially acceptable in their line of work.
“First impressions count and employers may be on the lookout for reasons not to hire you, so don’t hurt your chances of bagging that dream job over a bit of ink. There are some fields, like the business, finance and medical field, which still frown upon body art. However, if you’re in the creative or entertainment industry, body art is acceptable.
“Ultimately, your job search isn’t just about you finding a job, it’s about fulfilling your employer’s requirements and meeting their expectations. Regardless of how much experience you have or how unique your skill, if you aren’t the right fit for a company because of your appearance, the employer has every right not to hire you.”
Corporate Coach Academy chief executive officer Michael Heah believes employers may be getting accustomed to the idea of body art because their own children have tattoos and piercings.
“When bosses and heads of department realise that their own son or daughter has a tattoo or piercing, and he or she is a good person, they warm up to the idea. The prejudices are lesser when they realise that youngsters are just trying to be creative and find their own identity, it’s not about gangsterism or being rebellious.
“While many companies are more open to the idea of body art, there are some industries or government agencies that are still against it.
“Many lower ranking despatch or office boys who like to look ‘cool’ by having a piercing or tattoo are told to take off their piercing or cover up their tattoo during office hours.
“However, they are allowed to flaunt their art during company dinners and other out of office functions. That’s a fair compromise.”
If you must have a tattoo or piercing, there are some dos and don’ts to adhere to, Lee advised.
“Stay away from anything that may provoke negative feelings, such as images of skulls, gargoyles, the devil, political parties or anything that’s offensive.
“Also, it’s best to have the art on a body part which allows you control over whether to show or to hide. For example, it’s safer to have a tattoo on the upper arm than lower, as you can always choose to cover it with your sleeve.”
For those who are regretting their choice of body art, there is no point crying over spilled milk, Lee added.
“Unless you have your ex’s name tattooed on your body, like Angelina Jolie does of Billy Bob Thornton, and your new partner is not too pleased, there’s no point looking back.
“If your body art doesn’t really affect you or someone dear to you, I’d suggest that you focus on other more important things. If you don’t make a big deal out of it, no one will either.”