Hiring Perceptions of Visible Body Modifications: The Effect of Tattoos and Piercings

This study will examine the main effects of tattoos, piercings, and the interaction effect between them on the likelihood of a job applicant’s ability to be hired. A short online survey using Qualtrics was administered with a total of 49 responses from across the United States. Participants were asked to view the resume of a hypothetical applicant and answer several questions regarding what they had just seen and the perceived qualifications of the applicant. The analyses conducted demonstrated there were no significant main effects of tattoos or piercings on hireability, nor any interaction effect between tattoos and piercings on hireability. Drawing from previous research, the lack of findings further illustrates the complex nature of first impressions concerning hiring practices