A question that is asked a lot in regards to tattoos is in reference to placement. Many people make a few mistakes when considering placement of a tattoo.
One of those mistakes I feel is deciding not to get a tattoo where you really, really want to put it because you are afraid of the pain level for that location. One of the most asked questions I get is, “Did that hurt?”. I would like to say that no matter where you decide to put your tattoo, it’s going to hurt. Some places hurt more than others - for example, on the bone is more painful that a fleshier spot.
But in the long run, the pain of getting a tattoo is relatively short, while the spot you pick is forever. The worst thing that could happen after your session is that you say to yourself, “Damn! That wasn’t so bad. I should have just sucked it up and gotten it where I really, really wanted it…..”.
The other problem though is that you have to balance where you really, really want it with also thinking long term. Especially if you are young and just starting out in your career.
As much those of us who are tattoo would like to believe opinions are changing in regards to tattoos in the workplace, they are not - at least not enough to say, “Screw it! They can’t not hire me because of my tattoos!”. Well, yes they can. They might not tell you that is the reason, but in the corporate world, visible tattoos are a no no. Doesn’t matter if they are in good taste or not. There is a perception of what type of person gets a tattoo by non-tattooed people. Like it or not, that is reality.
That’s why all these wrist tattoos that younger people - who aren’t even sure what their career might be - make me think, “Wow, that could be a problem….”. Could it be covered with a watch? Maybe - of course, you might not want to wear that type of watch all the time. What about a long sleeved shirt? I suppose, but that would get old really fast, especially in the summer.
Those who do not like tattoos or do not understand them view tattooed people in a certain way - it’s no different than any other person being judged first by appearance. It’s human nature like it or not. And if that keeps you from getting your dream job and you are okay with that because you want to get a neck tattoo or hand tattoo - well, then go for it. But don’t be naive and think you will change people’s opinions because you most likely won’t.
My husband and I own a small side business and we answer to know one - but we cover our tattoos around customers. We want repeat business and word of mouth business. The last thing we want is to put someone off because of our tattoos. Is it right that we have to worry about that? No - but we live in the real world.
If you are planning your first tattoo give a lot of thought to that placement. Once you have that first tattoo that is visible in certain situations you’ll understand more about what I mean by being judged. My tattoos are very visible when I WANT them to be - but very coverable when I NEED them to be.
Just a little food for thought….
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