Ash Putnam, a 23-year-old social media influencer known for her distinctive face tattoos and a large silver septum ring, recently sparked debate over job discrimination. Putnam shared her frustration with the hiring process, alleging that her body art might have influenced her job prospects.
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
After applying to a popular retail chain, Putnam received an automated rejection email without a detailed explanation. Suspecting that her visible tattoos and piercings played a role, she visited the store to seek clarification.
When she spoke with a manager, she was told that her application was rejected due to a lack of experience. Unsatisfied, Putnam inquired whether her tattoos were a factor. The manager denied this, but Putnam remained skeptical.
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
Putnam raised a broader issue: If lack of experience is a common reason for not hiring young people, where can they find employment? She questioned how those without prior job experience are supposed to enter the workforce if companies only hire experienced candidates. This challenge highlights a significant problem in today’s job market, irrespective of appearance.
Her story reflects a larger issue of job discrimination based on appearance. Although body art is becoming more accepted, some employers still view tattoos as unprofessional, which can impact their hiring decisions. This bias can exclude skilled individuals based on their appearance, perpetuating a cycle of discrimination.
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
Putnam argues that tattoos and piercings should not affect one's job performance or chances of employment. “I hate that my tattoos are such a defining factor for me getting a job or not,” she said. “Just because I have tattoos doesn’t mean I’m not going to be a good worker.”
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
Her TikTok video, which has garnered 9.7 million views, has ignited widespread discussion. Some former employees and hiring managers from the same chain confirmed that visible tattoos and piercings can influence hiring decisions. One former manager commented, “I used to be a hiring manager for TJ Maxx, and I will tell you it’s the facial piercings and tattoos.”
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
Conversely, some commenters supported the store’s position, suggesting that individuals should be aware of the potential consequences of visible body modifications. One user remarked, “Most times when you flip the bird at society, society flips one right back.”
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| © ashxobrien / Instagram |
The debate continues on whether personal expression should impact job opportunities, with opinions divided on maintaining professional standards versus embracing diverse self-expression.
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