Most employers in the corporate world would say, as long as our clients, customers, and colleagues can’t see them, tattoos are perfectly fine in the workplace. Still, a growing number of tattoo fans feel that body art won’t affect their chances of getting a job, whether they it be seen or not. Although tattoos are as mainstream as ever, unfortunately, they can be a detriment in the workplace. According to a recent msnbc.com report:

Employment experts, like Pam Vizer from the Polaris Career Center in Middleburg Heights, say the growing popularity of tattoos doesn’t mean they are accepted in the workplace.  “If it’s distracting to the interviewer, then they’re not going to learn who you are and why you might be a good hire for them,” Vizer said.

Vizer also urged all employees to be aware of company dress codes. “There are different grooming and dress codes — and grooming and dress codes are completely legal,” she said.

In the end, whether it is a lifestyle choice or not, freedom of expression, or whatever the point is, in the conservative white collar world (and many professions in the blue collar world), you will be judged if you waltz into a job interview covered in tattoos, but even worse is, you probably won’t get the job.