Tattoo and inclusion, being authentically oneself at work

Abstract

Physical appearance is one of the primary criteria for discrimination in France. However, unlike Anglo-Saxon literature, only a few French studies have focused on the discrimination and inclusion encountered by tattooed individuals in the country. Addressing this gap in the literature, this study sought to understand the acceptability of tattoos as a manipulable component of physical appearance in the French workplace. This exploratory qualitative study involving tattooed people and recruiters highlights that most tattooed people hide their tattoos due to the fear of social prejudice and its consequences, while the recruiters’ discourse, reflecting the mirror effect, emphasizes that tattoos are not considered a problem as long as they are not visible. This dialog between the visible and the invisible creates dissonance between the internal and external selves, driving tattooed people to adopt an authenticity that can best be described as “hindered.” This further questions the possibility of being authentically oneself at work, which has significant consequences on tattooed people’s engagement and well-being at work. Moreover, this is an example of discreet but real discrimination, revealing the dissonance between the discourses and practices of inclusion in organizations. Consequently, this study emphasizes the necessity of incorporating tattoos into the inclusion policies of organizations while also reflecting on the components and limits pertaining to authenticity at work that affect inclusivity. Future research on inclusion must strive to better integrate the dimensions of physical appearance and tattoos into policy.