In the latest issue of
Rob Nance, publisher over at
OK, gotcha. But, doesnt that exclude a large population of people that are good at their job who just happen to sport ink on their skin? Does it pay to judge someone on that sort of personal expression?
Approximately 40 percent of Gen Xers model tattoos and thats a 2006 statistic so you can bet that number is continuing to climb. So while accountants and CPAs are known for their conservative demeanor and outlook, theres a chance that might be changing as the younger generation begin to lead firms.
Another response came in from a New York City CPA. Well leave out his name to protect the identity of those in his story:
Over 30 years ago I was promoted to manager at a Big 8 firms NYC office. I was selected to serve on a panel updating the NY metro audit group on SEC changes. The head audit partner for the NY region told me that since the seminar was on a Saturday I could dress informally. I wore a blazer and open collar shirt. He showed up in a Glen Plaid suit and tie. Anything less than navy, black or a dark pinstripe was informal to him. Six months later we had a management sports day for the NY region. In the locker room I saw this same senior partner with two tattoos. One was a (large) battleship on his chest, the other a heart with mom in the middle on his arm. I forced one of my colleagues to witness these tats. He was an older manager and advised me to forget what I saw.
Just goes to show you never know. And that just because you may have a tattoo, doesnt mean you cant be a professional or be taken seriously.