In a recent TikTok video, heavily tattooed creator Ash O’Brien (@ashxobrien) shared her frustration about facing difficulty in securing a job due to her appearance. She applied to TJ Maxx but was denied without receiving a phone call or a clear explanation. Upon visiting the store to inquire about the rejection, she was told that she lacked experience, but she suspected that the tattoos on her face and body were the underlying reason. She questioned whether her tattoos were a defining factor in her job prospects and urged viewers to share their experiences in the job market, particularly as young adults.
O’Brien expressed her belief that tattoos should not hinder her ability to be a good worker and pointed out that some of the most intelligent people she knows have tattoos and piercings. She also noted that in Europe, people with tattoos and piercings face fewer obstacles in obtaining employment and questioned whether the United States was lagging behind in embracing this trend.
Viewers in the comments section offered varying opinions, with many suggesting that O’Brien’s tattoos were likely the reason for the rejection. Some argued that companies like TJ Maxx would hesitate to place a heavily tattooed individual in a customer-facing role. Others urged her to be more realistic about her expectations and less “delusional.” O’Brien maintained that she has other sources of income but desires additional funds to supplement her earnings and pay off her debt.
While tattoos have become less taboo in workplaces in recent years, heavily tattooed individuals like O’Brien still face challenges in certain job sectors, particularly those involving public interaction. The likelihood of employment can vary depending on the company and industry, with the art and design industry often being more accepting of visible tattoos as a sign of artistic credibility and creative flair.
