Can Investment Bankers Have Tattoos in 2023?

Investment banking is a highly competitive industry that requires a combination of intelligence, hard work, and determination.

For investment bankers to be taken with seriousness and trust, they must possess an in-depth knowledge of the market and be able to effectively analyze financial data but they also must look the part. This often includes having a conservative appearance and being well-groomed.

Does the appearance standards mean that any form of body art is a big no-no? Or can investment bankers have tattoos without them affecting their professional image and career advancement?

The answer really depends on a number of factors.

Can Investment Bankers Have Tattoos?

So, are bankers allowed tattoos?

While there’s no general law or investment banking tattoo policy against having tattoos in the investment banking industry, it is important to consider the nature and location of the tattoo to maximize your chances of getting hired as an investment banker and having a long and successful career.

For example, a small and discreet tattoo on the wrist or ankle may not be as noticeable or potentially offensive, while a large and colorful tattoo on the arm or neck may attract more attention and judgment.

Additionally, each company may have its own dress code policies that restrict visible tattoos in the workplace. It’s also worth considering how clients and colleagues may view tattoos, as they could potentially affect your professional image and relationships with them.

Ultimately, whether or not an investment banker can have a tattoo comes down to personal discretion and how comfortable one is with potential judgment from peers and clients. It’s important to remember that your skills and performance in the workplace should be the primary factor in your success as an investment banker, not your appearance or body art.

Can You Be Declined Job Because of Your Tattoos?

Looking at how the world has evolved over the last 2 decades and how differently it perceives tattoos today, it’s natural to assume that a candidate wouldn’t be declined a position solely because of their tattoos.

However, as sad as it sounds, this is still happening – and investment banking isn’t alone in this. For example, the majority of the aviation industry openly discriminates against people with tattoos when looking for new flight attendants and pilots. Doctors and teachers are other professions that have faced similar hardships.

So, why is this allowed in this day and age?

Well, at least when it comes to the US, tattoos aren’t included in the anti-discrimination laws. The Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects against discrimination based on race, sex, religion, and national origin – but not on tattoos or body art.

This means that it is ultimately up to the company’s discretion whether or not they want to hire someone with visible tattoos. And they can be really honest about it!

Unfortunately, this doesn’t look like changing (for the better) anytime soon so the importance of carefully selecting where and what you get tattooed is something to consider for those who want to pursue a career in investment banking or any other potentially discriminating industry.

Recommended Tattoos for Investment Bankers

As in the case of many “risky” professions, people eager to launch a successful career in investment banking are encouraged to play it safe when it comes to tattoos.

This means avoiding anything too large, colorful, or controversial.

Smaller, discreet symbols or designs on areas like the wrist, ankle, or even behind the ear can still showcase personal expression without attracting unwanted attention.

If you do decide to get a tattoo in a more visible area, consider opting for something professional or meaningful rather than a random design. This can include symbols related to your heritage or culture, motivational quotes, or even logos from your alma mater.

Generally speaking, it’s always best to opt for tattoos that can be covered – in case they need to. The more coverable your tattoo, the less hassle and potential judgment you may face in the workplace.

In terms of placement, the obvious no-go zones are the face and neck. Hands are also a risky choice as they can easily be seen during meetings or presentations.

Remember, while personal expression is important, it’s crucial to carefully consider the potential impact of your tattoos on your professional image and career.

Best Options to Cover Tattoos

Let’s assume you’ve already gotten tattoos in more visible areas – what now?

The good news is that there are various options for temporary tattoo coverage. These include concealer and cover-up makeup, band-aids, and clothing choices.

For everyday wear or formal events, long sleeves or high collars can help hide tattoos on the arms or neck. For more intense coverage during important meetings or presentations, tattoo sleeves (fabric covers designed to resemble authentic skin and tattoos) can be a lifesaver.

In the most extreme cases, your employer might ask you to get your tattoo removed or covered up permanently. Laser tattoo removal can be costly and painful, so carefully weigh the benefits of your tattoo against potentially going through this process.

Are There Many Investment Bankers With Tattoos?

Looking at how the popularity and acceptance have grown over the last 2 decades and how many people have fallen in love with the body art, it’s hard to imagine that there aren’t many investment bankers with tattoos.

Well, at least there are more than ever before.

The current trends and the continuing relaxation of professional dress codes, as well as the acceptance of tattoos in popular culture, have made it easier for those with body art to pursue careers in industries like investment banking.

However, it’s important to remember that the industry is still largely conservative and traditional in its attitudes toward appearance. This means that most investment bankers likely have more discreet or coverable tattoos – if they have any at all.

This may and probably will change in the coming years but, for now, it’s important to carefully consider the potential impact of visible tattoos on your professional image and career prospects in investment banking.

Investment Banking & Tattoos: Final Word

To sum up and settle the question once and for all – can investment bankers have tattoos? The answer is yes, but with a few considerations.

As with any profession, it’s important to carefully consider the potential impact of your tattoos on your chances of success in still-conservative industries such as investment banking.

Opting for smaller, discreet designs in coverable areas and avoiding anything too controversial can help minimize potential judgment or backlash.

At the end of the day, remember that you should never let anyone’s negative opinions stop you from expressing yourself and embracing your unique individuality – but it’s also important to be aware of how those expressions may affect your career prospects.

If you’re an investment banker with tattoos, embrace them confidently – but also be prepared to cover them up or remove them in certain situations, if necessary. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right balance and making informed decisions for yourself and your career.

Also, if you have first-hand experience or unique insight on this topic, please share in the comments below! We’d love to hear your thoughts.