Are Tattoos Still a Taboo in Recruitment?

Tattoos have become a mainstream form of self-expression, with one in three people aged 29 to 44 now sporting body art. Tattoo parlours are a familiar sight on high streets, and inked skin is increasingly embraced across social and cultural landscapes. However, despite this societal shift, many workplaces continue to lag behind in their acceptance of visible tattoos—particularly in professional and client-facing roles.

A study conducted by King’s College London and workplace experts ACAS in September 2016 revealed that employers in various industries still hesitate to hire candidates with visible tattoos. This raises the question: Are businesses missing out on valuable talent due to outdated perceptions?

Are Tattoos Affecting Hiring Decisions?

Have you ever overlooked a strong candidate due to visible body art? UK workplace equality laws do not offer protection for body modifications unless they are tied to religious beliefs. This means employers can legally reject a candidate based on their tattoos. However, with changing demographics and evolving workplace cultures, it might be time to reconsider rigid hiring policies.

The impact of tattoos in the workplace largely depends on the industry. More conservative, client-facing sectors—such as law, banking, and corporate services—often perceive tattoos as unprofessional or potentially off-putting to clients. On the other hand, creative industries like media, fashion, music, and the arts tend to embrace body art as a symbol of individuality and self-expression. In fact, research suggests that tattooed candidates are often more successful in interviews for roles in bars, nightclubs, and youth-oriented brands, where they are perceived as trendy and relatable to the target audience.

The Fine Line: Acceptable vs. Unacceptable Tattoos

At Extra Workforce, we interact with candidates daily and recognize that the acceptability of tattoos depends on various factors, including size, placement, and content. A small, discreet tattoo on the wrist may be seen as acceptable, whereas a large, heavily inked neck or face tattoo might still be considered intimidating or unprofessional in many settings.

Employers also need to consider the nature of the tattoo itself. While artistic or sentimental designs may be overlooked, tattoos containing offensive language, extremist symbols, or racist connotations are never acceptable in a professional environment.

Are You Overlooking Exceptional Talent?

ACAS warns that companies enforcing a strict no-tattoo hiring policy may be unknowingly excluding talented individuals who could add value to their business. Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of modern recruitment strategies, and companies that embrace varied backgrounds, skills, and perspectives are often more innovative and successful.

Stephen Williams, Head of Equality at ACAS ( https://www.acas.org.uk/), emphasizes that almost a third of young people now have tattoos. As Millennials advance into leadership roles and Gen Z enters the workforce, tattoos are becoming more normalized. Younger generations expect employers to adopt more inclusive policies, and businesses that fail to evolve may struggle to attract top talent.

Tattoos in the Workplace: The Future Outlook

The workplace is changing, and so are expectations around professional appearance. As societal norms shift, rigid hiring biases against tattoos may become outdated, potentially alienating skilled professionals who could otherwise drive a company’s growth and success.

Ask yourself: Can your business afford to dismiss candidates based on body art alone? Could your company benefit from a more progressive hiring approach that focuses on skills and experience rather than personal aesthetics?

An exceptional candidate—one who could be a perfect cultural and professional fit for your organization—may hesitate to apply for a role simply because they know your company enforces a no-visible-tattoo policy. In a competitive job market, businesses must rethink traditional hiring prejudices and embrace diversity to remain relevant and attract the best talent.

Final Thought:

Tattoos are no longer just for rebels and rockstars; they are an artistic expression of personal identity. As generational shifts continue to redefine workplace norms, businesses must ask themselves: Is it time to erase the tattoo taboo in recruitment?