A recent incident involving a woman named Ash Putnam has sparked a larger conversation about the impact of visible tattoos and piercings on career prospects. Putnam, 24, shared her frustration in a TikTok video that quickly went viral, with over 7 million views. She explained how she was rejected from a retail job at TJ Maxx, despite her experience, and speculated that her visible face tattoos and piercings were the real reason behind the rejection.
The Job Search Struggle
Putnam’s video revealed that she applied for a retail position at TJ Maxx, only to be met with an automated rejection email. After confronting a hiring manager, she was told that the reason for her rejection was her lack of experience. However, Putnam believes that her tattoos played a role in the decision.
Her story resonated with many people who have faced similar challenges in the workforce. In the video, she asked her followers for advice, particularly about how young adults and teenagers, with little to no experience, are supposed to land jobs in today’s competitive job market. She highlighted how her tattoos, which are considered part of her identity, seem to overshadow her potential as an employee. She questioned, “Just because I have tattoos doesn’t mean that I’m not going to be a good worker.”
Stock image of tattoo artist. Credit / Shutterstock
Tattoos in the Workplace: A Changing Perspective
Over the last decade, tattoos have become increasingly accepted in various professional fields. Creative industries, including entertainment and design, have long embraced visible body art, and it’s now more common to see employees with tattoos in the workplace. However, for those with extensive tattoos, especially on the face, finding a job in customer-facing roles like retail can still be a challenge.
One commenter on Putnam’s video pointed out, “There’s a reason that tattoo artists refer to face tattoos as career enders.” Another viewer echoed this sentiment, saying, “I don’t think it’s because you have tattoos, I think it’s WHERE you have tattoos.” This highlights the ongoing stigma surrounding tattoos, especially on visible areas of the face or neck, which can be viewed as unprofessional by certain employers, particularly in customer service.
The Role of Body Art in Personal Expression
While face tattoos may be considered a barrier for certain types of employment, many people, including Putnam, argue that tattoos and piercings should not determine a person’s job qualifications. She believes that body art shows creativity and uniqueness, and it should not be used as a judgment on someone’s skills or work ethic. She emphasized that tattoos, piercings, and colored hair do not make a person unprofessional—they are merely a form of personal expression.
Putnam’s video sparked a larger conversation about how businesses should rethink their hiring processes. According to her, companies that judge applicants based on their appearance—specifically tattoos—should reassess their hiring policies to focus more on skill and qualifications.
Tattoos: A Sign of Creativity, Not Unprofessionalism
In recent years, there has been a shift in the professional world regarding tattoos and piercings. More companies are becoming open-minded and allowing employees to express themselves through their body art. However, there are still industries and roles where visible tattoos may be seen as a hindrance to employment. This is particularly true in customer service jobs, where companies often have a strict dress code or appearance standards to maintain a certain image.
Despite the challenges, many individuals continue to advocate for acceptance in the workplace. Tattoos are no longer just a subculture or trend—they are a mainstream form of self-expression. Employers who are focused solely on the appearance of their employees may miss out on talented individuals who bring unique perspectives and creative abilities to the table.
Overcoming Bias in the Job Market
The debate surrounding tattoos in the workplace is not a new one, but it is an important issue that needs to be addressed as the workforce evolves. As more people with tattoos enter the job market, it is crucial for employers to look beyond physical appearance and focus on a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and potential.
While it may take time for some industries to fully embrace the diversity of body art, Putnam’s message is clear: tattoos do not define a person’s work ethic or capabilities. People should be judged based on their skills and performance, not their appearance.
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Conclusion
The stigma surrounding tattoos in the workplace, particularly face tattoos, remains a significant barrier for many job seekers. However, as society becomes more accepting of personal expression, it’s important for employers to evolve their hiring practices and focus on what truly matters—an individual’s ability to contribute to the workplace. People like Ash Putnam are leading the charge in challenging outdated perceptions, reminding us that creativity and skill should be valued above appearances.
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