Tattoos still taboo for employers:

• Managers ‘view tattoos as taboo and worry about hiring someone with them’
• Study said they think customers associate them with ‘thugs and druggies’

For some people, tattoos are a form of artistic expression. Other see it as an act of rebellion. But those considering body art should ‘think twice if they are looking for a job’.

University of St Andrews researchers found stigma still surrounds tattoos despite their increasing popularity among young people.

Management expert Dr Andrew Timming, who led the research, said that while he personally liked tattoos, many of the hiring managers he interviewed still view tattoo as taboo.  “Most respondents believe that visible tattoos are a stigma”, he said

‘It was suggested that customers might project a negative service experience based on stereotypes that tattooed people are thugs and druggies.’

What do you believe?