Tattoos, Piercing And Cross-Dressing, Oh My

Tattoos were always associated with sailors, marines, and bikers. Not today. Over the past few decades, there has been real progress towards accepting tattoos and other body art in the workplace. At the same time, highly visible piercings and tattoos still have a negative connotation.

The same is not true with those who have gender orientation or gender identity issues. The workplace is still confused and conflicted over what it appropriate, how to handle it and hot to deal with the real employee relations issues caused by the topic.

Tattooed professionals often manage their own business and “tattooed” selves separately in professional settings, especially in customer-facing jobs and upon first impressions. Some people choose to always cover their tattoos while others show their tattoos after they have established themselves. The same is often true of piercings.

The right to self-expression is more problematic with gender orientation and gender identity issues. For many employees, the conversation and, ultimately, the decision, to change the visible parts of an individuals’ gender is compounded by religious beliefs, personal experiences and the media.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• At what point does the employee’s right to self-expression interfere with the employer’s right to set boundaries
• What would be an acceptable and legal dress policy
• What are the latest issues with gender orientation and identity
• What are the legal obligations of employers when it comes to those with gender identity issues

WHO WILL BENEFIT?

• HR Managers and Directors
• Small Business Owners and Managers
• Other Senior HR Staff
• Senior staff in Finance, Information Management or Facilities