Body Ink on Wall Street

I've noticed a lot more people in the locker room, gym, or wherever with tattoos recently... even among senior guys, it seems like it's become a bit more acceptable. I wanted to post this earlier today but forgot. Anyway, my boss caught me yesterday in the locker room (most of us go to the same gym and go together during the day a lot) and saw the fairly large tattoo on my back. He wasn't shocked or angry or anything, and that surprised me. All he wanted to know was the story behind it. I'm also seeing a lot more of my analyst buddies and what not have them too, and it got me wondering if the stigma behind tattoos has basically gone away.

Anyone else been noticing this? And what are your thoughts on tattoos in general, but also in the context of employability. Would knowing someone you're interviewing has a tattoo on their arm make them less likely for you to give a good recommendation for hiring?

My own thought would be that anyone dumb enough to get one that's always visible isn't such a great candidate considering they don't understand or just don't care about the way society works.

 
Voltaire X:
I don't see why anyone would care at all if it's a tattoo that is covered when you're at work.

Cause some people just assume things about others based off of stuff they shouldn't be assuming stuff from... I do hope the stigma goes away, with the way our generation thinks about a lot of things, I do think it will tone down in the future... which will be good for me

http://www.neatorama.com/2007/09/23/the-tattooed-doctor/

http://mag.rankmytattoos.com/ink-meets-inc-20-tattooed-executive-and-wh…

I have a tattoo on my forearm, still don't regret it. It's for my mom, so it'll be really really hard for me to want it off. I guess the only bad thing is that I could never really roll my sleeves up if I got a job at a bank, but whatever, not that big of a deal.

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
Voltaire X:
I don't see why anyone would care at all if it's a tattoo that is covered when you're at work.

Cause some people just assume things about others based off of stuff they shouldn't be assuming stuff from... I do hope the stigma goes away, with the way our generation thinks about a lot of things, I do think it will tone down in the future... which will be good for me

http://www.neatorama.com/2007/09/23/the-tattooed-doctor/

http://mag.rankmytattoos.com/ink-meets-inc-20-tattooed-executive-and-wh…

I have a tattoo on my forearm, still don't regret it. It's for my mom, so it'll be really really hard for me to want it off. I guess the only bad thing is that I could never really roll my sleeves up if I got a job at a bank, but whatever, not that big of a deal.

I find it more despicable that a doctor would be so fucking fat and unhealthy

Also did you notice how all of the professionals on that list are fat and/or ugly? Tattoos are a fat chick's equivalent of a push-up bra And there are so many tatted lawyers, it's as if they do it on purpose to have a fighting chance with women. "yes i look like shit, yes i do boring shit all day, yes i have a personality of a wet napkin, but i got an adventurous streak too, dammit! Look at my tattoos, i am a badass!"

More is good, all is better
 
gofedwinAus:
I disagree with everything being mentioned here but maybe I am the only one that still hates tattoos and piercings.
I'm not a fan either. They're hard to get rid of, and tats/peircings are often an indicator of a personthat flaunts any social norms just to do it, so they are a liability around work/family, and I know that's a generalization but it has been my experience. No way I'll get one now, but when I get old as fuck and retire, I'm getting a huge ass battleship tat on my chest, guns ablaze, with nude mermaids and seamonsters, old school.
Get busy living
 

you hate them enough to not hire somebody if they have them?

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
gofedwinAus:
wolverine19x89:
you hate them enough to not hire somebody if they have them?

If the tattoo is not visible than its fine if he is the best qualified candidate for the job.

excellent. that's all we ask lol

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

I think having an inconspicuous tattoo is totally a non-issue - more than a few people in business school have them. Although I agree that the overall stigma towards tattoos in the U.S. is definitely waning, there are still some generations and cultures that are uptight about them.

 
jgx101:
You have to be pretty fit for a tat to look good. Tattoos look terrible on skinny guys with no muscle.

and fat guys with flab

"One should recognize reality even when one doesn't like it, indeed, especially when one doesn't like it." - Charlie Munger
 
International Pymp:
so long as you can wear jeans and a polo without it being seen, it really doesn't matter at all.
yeah my "SWAG" tat is on my chest so you can't see it, but you can easy tell i got swag, cause u cant just cover up swag u know? so if im interviewin they def gonna know i got that swag, weather i show my tat or nott.

so who here gonna ding me cuz my swag 2 fresh? u prob a hater.

 
swagon:
International Pymp:
so long as you can wear jeans and a polo without it being seen, it really doesn't matter at all.
yeah my "SWAG" tat is on my chest so you can't see it, but you can easy tell i got swag, cause u cant just cover up swag u know? so if im interviewin they def gonna know i got that swag, weather i show my tat or nott.

so who here gonna ding me cuz my swag 2 fresh? u prob a hater.

hahahahahahahaha

I eat success for breakfast...with skim milk
 

I think we can all agree that you probably shouldn't hire somebody with neck tats/hand tats for an IB job unless you keep him far far away from clients

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

Has anyone been watching the NBA lately? A few years ago, many of the players had a few tattoos on their shoulders or upper arms. Now those tattoos have spread like a disease, growing down both arms, covering their neck, their chest, and who knows where else. What does it all mean? I don't know, but what I do know is that this issue is rarely, if ever, discussed by the media...or the players themselves. As for the relevance of tattoos in the business world, I would imagine a small, barely noticeable tattoo would slip under the radar. Employees with more prevalent tattoos may have a more difficult time...but in a few years, who knows?

Howard Schwartz See my WSO blog
 
hdavid57:
Has anyone been watching the NBA lately? A few years ago, many of the players had a few tattoos on their shoulders or upper arms. Now those tattoos have spread like a disease, growing down both arms, covering their neck, their chest, and who knows where else. What does it all mean? I don't know, but what I do know is that this issue is rarely, if ever, discussed by the media...or the players themselves. As for the relevance of tattoos in the business world, I would imagine a small, barely noticeable tattoo would slip under the radar. Employees with more prevalent tattoos may have a more difficult time...but in a few years, who knows?

And they look like they had the cracked out street corner meth dealer from prison put them on.

 
hdavid57:
Has anyone been watching the NBA lately? A few years ago, many of the players had a few tattoos on their shoulders or upper arms. Now those tattoos have spread like a disease, growing down both arms, covering their neck, their chest, and who knows where else. What does it all mean? I don't know, but what I do know is that this issue is rarely, if ever, discussed by the media...or the players themselves. As for the relevance of tattoos in the business world, I would imagine a small, barely noticeable tattoo would slip under the radar. Employees with more prevalent tattoos may have a more difficult time...but in a few years, who knows?

Why would or should the media talk about it? Who gives a fuck. If some guy plays pro basketball, he doesn't need to conform to typical white collar office wear. If people are honestly offended by tattoos, they need to check themselves. "Ohhhh, my precious office boy sensibilities! Tattoos are mean!"

 
CEEBanker:
Only discrete fraternity tattoos are acceptable.

That way we can know you're still a fuckin GDI even if you were in a so called fraternity.

Real fraternities either do nothing or sometimes brand. Fraternity tattoos = GDI regardless.

 
happypantsmcgee:
I basically have a half sleeve on my left arm and no one I work with even knows its there.

Do you really?

I have large chest piece and no one ever noticed. I have seen a few guys that got small arm ones in college, I dont think anyone really cares, especially if they aren't noticeable.

WSO Vice President, Data @JustinDDuBois
 
Commuter:
happypantsmcgee:
I basically have a half sleeve on my left arm and no one I work with even knows its there.

Do you really? .

Yes, sir.
If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses - Henry Ford
 

I don't have any, though I've considered getting one. I don't get the hate on them, though. Especially if they can be covered easily in business settings. Who gives a fuck if some dude has a tattoo on his upper arm or back or leg or whatever. Shit just doesn't matter.

 

I hate tats and piercings too, I totally agree with UFO. I also agree with the consensus here that I would hire a guy that has a tatoo that can't be seen (how would I even know it's there??). However, that includes forearms (sorry wolverine) and calfs and things like that. They won't be seen in the office, but chances are that you'll meet colleagues and clients outside the office with short sleeves and/or shorts.

 
Maximus Decimus Meridius:
I hate tats and piercings too, I totally agree with UFO. I also agree with the consensus here that I would hire a guy that has a tatoo that can't be seen (how would I even know it's there??). However, that includes forearms (sorry wolverine) and calfs and things like that. They won't be seen in the office, but chances are that you'll meet colleagues and clients outside the office with short sleeves and/or shorts.

Gotta agree with Maximus Decimus Meridius and UFO. Interesting to know that I am not the only one hating on tattoos and piercings. Still they are ugly and gross and I do not get why people need to have them in the first place.

 
CEEBanker:
Only discrete fraternity tattoos are acceptable.

what a toolish idea

bigtool05:
I still think they look really ugly. I kind of hope they stay stigmatized

Well I would say that your name sums up your personality pretty well then.

Maximus Decimus Meridius:
I hate tats and piercings too, I totally agree with UFO. I also agree with the consensus here that I would hire a guy that has a tatoo that can't be seen (how would I even know it's there??). However, that includes forearms (sorry wolverine) and calfs and things like that. They won't be seen in the office, but chances are that you'll meet colleagues and clients outside the office with short sleeves and/or shorts.

Good luck finding my tattoo on my forearm during an interview! AHAHAHAAHAAH!!! I'm gonna infiltrate your shit brah! YOU WON'T EVEN KNOW!... but honestly, I think I could find a way to keep it covered at all times... they even have crap like this if it's that big of a deal

However... I'm interested in s&t or programming anyways, so I think I'm good with the clients thing

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
CEEBanker:
Only discrete fraternity tattoos are acceptable.

what a toolish idea

bigtool05:
I still think they look really ugly. I kind of hope they stay stigmatized

Well I would say that your name sums up your personality pretty well then.

Maximus Decimus Meridius:
I hate tats and piercings too, I totally agree with UFO. I also agree with the consensus here that I would hire a guy that has a tatoo that can't be seen (how would I even know it's there??). However, that includes forearms (sorry wolverine) and calfs and things like that. They won't be seen in the office, but chances are that you'll meet colleagues and clients outside the office with short sleeves and/or shorts.

Good luck finding my tattoo on my forearm during an interview! AHAHAHAAHAAH!!! I'm gonna infiltrate your shit brah! YOU WON'T EVEN KNOW!... but honestly, I think I could find a way to keep it covered at all times... they even have crap like this if it's that big of a deal

However... I'm interested in s&t or programming anyways, so I think I'm good with the clients thing

I would hire that guy in a heartbeat.

 
wolverine19x89:
bigtool05:
I still think they look really ugly. I kind of hope they stay stigmatized

Well I would say that your name sums up your personality pretty well then.

Because I think tattoos are ugly?

 
wolverine19x89:
CEEBanker:
Only discrete fraternity tattoos are acceptable.

what a toolish idea

bigtool05:
I still think they look really ugly. I kind of hope they stay stigmatized

Well I would say that your name sums up your personality pretty well then.

Maximus Decimus Meridius:
I hate tats and piercings too, I totally agree with UFO. I also agree with the consensus here that I would hire a guy that has a tatoo that can't be seen (how would I even know it's there??). However, that includes forearms (sorry wolverine) and calfs and things like that. They won't be seen in the office, but chances are that you'll meet colleagues and clients outside the office with short sleeves and/or shorts.

Good luck finding my tattoo on my forearm during an interview! AHAHAHAAHAAH!!! I'm gonna infiltrate your shit brah! YOU WON'T EVEN KNOW!... but honestly, I think I could find a way to keep it covered at all times... they even have crap like this if it's that big of a deal

However... I'm interested in s&t or programming anyways, so I think I'm good with the clients thing

I think that guy works for Piper Jaffray.

 
tiger90:
TonyPerkis:
When do nipple rings become a problem?

(serious question, was thinking of getting one)

When you wear form fitting shirts in A/C offices.

Well thats my office exactly...undershirt?

I eat success for breakfast...with skim milk
 

lol wonder how much he would have to spend yearly on that shit if he worked in an office

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

of course the nose ring won't fly, you can always take those out though

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

doesn't matter, I'd call him a retard if he had an attitude about it... then I'd probably get shanked

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
doesn't matter, I'd call him a retard if he had an attitude about it... then I'd probably get shanked

There are very few things I find worthwhile the possibility of getting shanked, hiring this guy would be one of them haha. With that said, I have a tattoo on my upper back, chicks dig tats bra.

 
Bobb:
ST Monkey:
it helps if you are in sales or in trading, makes you look like one tough mother fucker. Just make sure it's not some girl's name.

What if it says "Mom"?

What if your mom is also your dad? But your Dad is also your mom?

I eat success for breakfast...with skim milk
 

tatoos usually look stupid because if you need to write a message or symbol under your skin in permanent ink to remember something then you are probably an idiot. only professional athletes, musicians and ex-military can get tats. And i don't know if the person who said frat tats are ok was serious but raping drunk chicks for 4 years and getting a tat to remember it doesnt make you cool. you are still a white kid from the suburbs.

 
FusRoDah:
tatoos usually look stupid because if you need to write a message or symbol under your skin in permanent ink to remember something then you are probably an idiot.

that's not usually the reason why people get tattoos even if it is in "remembrance" of somebody/something

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
FusRoDah:
tatoos usually look stupid because if you need to write a message or symbol under your skin in permanent ink to remember something then you are probably an idiot.

that's not usually the reason why people get tattoos even if it is in "remembrance" of somebody/something

Then what is the reason? "Expressing yourself?" So you think you can "express yourself" for however many decades and that tatoo will never look bad and you will never regret it? I think a lot of tatoos are cool but I could never make a decision as a 20-something to get a permanent marking on my body.

cool because he's a black rapper http://www4.pictures.stylebistro.com/gi/Wiz+Khalifa+Tattoos+Lettering+T…

not cool http://img.funtasticus.com/2008/apr/tattoo04022008/tattoo008.jpg

 
FusRoDah:
tatoos usually look stupid because if you need to write a message or symbol under your skin in permanent ink to remember something then you are probably an idiot. only professional athletes, musicians and ex-military can get tats. And i don't know if the person who said frat tats are ok was serious but raping drunk chicks for 4 years and getting a tat to remember it doesnt make you cool. you are still a white kid from the suburbs.

youre thinking of the movie Memento

 

depends on if they actually say that they're "repping" their city.

lol some of you guys are so judgmental

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

I have full sleeve on my right arm and 2/3 sleeve on my left. Most days I put a concealer cream my right wrist up to just past my shirt cuff. Never roll up my sleeves and polo's aren't allowed any day during the 5 day work week. Haven't worn anything but a long sleeve shirt to work weekend or not in the last 2.5 yr.'s since I started. My left shin is completely covered as well.

Ace all your PE interview questions with the WSO Private Equity Prep Pack: http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/guide/private-equity-interview-prep-questions
 
AlsatianCousin:
Slightly off-topic, but for those who have tattoos, who is/are your artist/s?
Why would you trust someone else? Do it yourself in the mirror.

Only one I've fucked up so far is my check tat (used to be a big mike tyson fan), butchered it tbh so I just colored my whole face green. Worked out fine, no one in the BO minds.

 
Bondarb:
Of course they dont flaunt them in the office but its no big deal unless u work shirtless...

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

1... you're in high school, which may explain your need to generalize everybody like a child. Just because the kids in your high school that have tats aren't the brightest doesn't mean that everybody outside of high school with tats is just as worthless or a bad person. Jesus. 2. like when you're old and wrinkly with your balls at your knee caps, an old tattoo is going to be the thing that makes you self conscious... PS tattoo artists nowadays know things that past tattoo artists didn't, which means that the spreading of ink is going to be decreased dramatically. 3. that's why you make sure that your tattoos mean a lot to you and will always mean a lot to you, think em over for months.

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
  1. I'm not in high school nor did I generalize everyone. Everyone I know that has a tat is a loser but that doesn't mean everyone everywhere with tattoos is a loser. But since poorer people tend to get tattoos I would bet if you did a regression you would see that at least in the US, the average person with a tattoo is poorer/less educated than those without.
  2. Tattoos on anyone over 40 look fucking retarded unless you're ex military or ex athlete. Children draw on themselves, not adults.
  3. Most people with tattoos aren't thinking about what the next 60 years of their lives will be like and how a permanent marking, often very stupid or juvenile, will affect their personal and professional lives. Multiple people in this thread mention they have to put on cover up every single day just to hold a job. Not worth it to me. And again some wigger kid from the suburbs isn't thinking about anything else besides the next handjob from his 5/10 girlfriend much less the fact that he is taking that tattoo to his grave with him whether he likes it or not.
 

I think tattoos are a little bit different than "drawing on yourself"... don't try to make something look bad by making it sound worse than it is. If you get a good enough artist, you can have a beautiful piece of art on your skin, a lot better than what children draw on themselves. Get over yourself.

Most people with tattoos do think about their future, you just think you're above them because the idiots at your school have tattoos. How many tattoos have you seen that are "very stupid" or "juvenile"? I bet you know way more people with tattoos that aren't juvenile than people who have tattoos that are. You're probably just basing this off of the pictures on the internet of straight up retards' tattoos.

"they have to put on cover up every single day just to hold a job"... again, trying to make something sound worse than it is "just to hold a job". You act like he has to do something excruciatingly difficult/inconvenient, it's cover up, it's not that bad.

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
I think tattoos are a little bit different than "drawing on yourself"... don't try to make something look bad by making it sound worse than it is. If you get a good enough artist, you can have a beautiful piece of art on your skin, a lot better than what children draw on themselves. Get over yourself.

Most people with tattoos do think about their future, you just think you're above them because the idiots at your school have tattoos. How many tattoos have you seen that are "very stupid" or "juvenile"? I bet you know way more people with tattoos that aren't juvenile than people who have tattoos that are. You're probably just basing this off of the pictures on the internet of straight up retards' tattoos.

"they have to put on cover up every single day just to hold a job"... again, trying to make something sound worse than it is "just to hold a job". You act like he has to do something excruciatingly difficult/inconvenient, it's cover up, it's not that bad.

You're right, its worse than drawing on yourself, its burning something into your skin. How many tattoos have I seen that are juvenile? Are you fucking kidding me? Pretty much 90% of them are juvenile or have some retarded meaning like "oh I got this because I think I'm Buddhist but I don't really know lol". Please give me an example of a cool tattoo on the average white guy. Honestly I don't know a single person with a tattoo that isn't an idiot.

 
FusRoDah:
wolverine19x89:
I think tattoos are a little bit different than "drawing on yourself"... don't try to make something look bad by making it sound worse than it is. If you get a good enough artist, you can have a beautiful piece of art on your skin, a lot better than what children draw on themselves. Get over yourself.

Most people with tattoos do think about their future, you just think you're above them because the idiots at your school have tattoos. How many tattoos have you seen that are "very stupid" or "juvenile"? I bet you know way more people with tattoos that aren't juvenile than people who have tattoos that are. You're probably just basing this off of the pictures on the internet of straight up retards' tattoos.

"they have to put on cover up every single day just to hold a job"... again, trying to make something sound worse than it is "just to hold a job". You act like he has to do something excruciatingly difficult/inconvenient, it's cover up, it's not that bad.

You're right, its worse than drawing on yourself, its burning something into your skin. How many tattoos have I seen that are juvenile? Are you fucking kidding me? Pretty much 90% of them are juvenile or have some retarded meaning like "oh I got this because I think I'm Buddhist but I don't really know lol". Please give me an example of a cool tattoo on the average white guy. Honestly I don't know a single person with a tattoo that isn't an idiot.

says the guy who thinks that tattoos are burnt into your skin (or is that just you being dramatic again?)... I can give you good examples of a cool tattoo on white guys but you're obviously ridiculously against tattoos enough to where it'd be pointless. and just because you think that somebody's meaning was "retarded" doesn't mean that the tattoo is retarded. believe it or not, there are more ways of looking at things than just your way.

stereotyping people with tattoos is fucking stupid and a lazy way to deal with choosing candidates if the rest of their resume/qualifications tell you that they'll be good for the job (not including client facing roles)

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

LOL most of them aren't even fat, and you could make a case against them being ugly...

they're just tattoos guys, stop looking too much into it lol

You know why I like tattooed people? Because they don't give a fuck if you don't have a tattoo.

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
wolverine19x89:
LOL most of them aren't even fat, and you could make a case against them being ugly...

they're just tattoos guys, stop looking too much into it lol

You know why I like tattooed people? Because they don't give a fuck if you don't have a tattoo.

the few of them that are not fat still don't look good or even normal.

I don't give a fuck about tattoos, i just don't want to be forced to look at nasty flabby bodies that are flapping their folds in an effort to showcase said "art". for some reason fat people think it's more acceptable to show nasty rippled thighs if there's a tattoo on them

More is good, all is better
 

I know plenty of guys that have tattoos (cool and stupid) that are very intelligent. I got mine with some army buddies and such. Do I regret them all? No. Do I regret any of them? Just one.

Souvenirs of service.

If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses - Henry Ford
 
FusRoDah:
I'm not against all tattoos, just 90% of them. Show me an example of what you think would be a "cool" or tasteful tattoo.

pretty much anything that depicts or is in honor of a loved one?

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 
tiger90:
FusRoDah:
I'm not against all tattoos, just 90% of them. Show me an example of what you think would be a "cool" or tasteful tattoo.

Those people who get words tattooed on the inside of their mouth, or under their eyelids, that's pretty fucking baller.

I agree

http://designtattoos.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/4.jpg

again, black rapper so that kind of shit is expected. I guess I just see tatoos as trashy unless they are completely over the top or awesome, but whatever.

 

Tribal armbands and shit that doesn't make any sense is something I'd never do but I don't really care if someone has it, I just don't understand it. But most people, probably that 90% you're talking about, have tattoos with a serious meaning to them. They want it to be a part of them more than just in their minds. Sometimes it's a sign of commitment or dedication or something like that, other times it is in memory of someone, sometimes it's just to remind them every time they see it. Mine's just about all of that and I know I'll never regret it, and that by the time it looks bad (saying tattoos look bad by 40 is just downright ignorant. Try 60 or 70 unless you become a fatass overnight or something) I won't give a fuck. I'll probably be proud of how shitty it looks actually.

I hate victims who respect their executioners
 

I don't see anything wrong with getting tattooed on the inside of your mouth, not like anybody can see them. Though they do tend to wear out really quickly so it's kind of a waste of money... I don't know what this under the eyelids thing is, but it sounds painful as shit.

If your dreams don't scare you, then they are not big enough. "There are two types of people in this world: People who say they pee in the shower, and dirty fucking liars."-Louis C.K.
 

The tattoo looking bad at 50-60 or after gaining weight should be the least of someone's worries. I have never looked at a fattie covered in tattos and thought to myself "you know, she would actually be pretty hot if it wasn't for all that ink" If anything, ink and piercing actually make ugly people somewhat more attractive by distracting from their horrible physiques and camouflaging cellulite and stretchmarks. Case in point, check out this old lady, the tattoo is applied in a way that creates an illusion of a waistline, plus black is slimming. I'd say she needs to add sleeves to that

Versus

More is good, all is better
 
monkeyc:
Double standard, but guys with non-visible tats no problems. Chicks though...I just found out a girl I work with relatively often has a small tattoo on the front of her foot. Completely changes my opinion of her.

I have a personal belief in the manner to which I look at women: If she's hot, she's hot.

 

I slept with this fairly conservative (at least you'd think that) muslim girl a few times when I first got to college, who had a big tat with some shit in Arabic right above her pussy...you can't explain that,

My drinkin' problem left today, she packed up all her bags and walked away.
 

Depends of the tattoo

Also, depends on location and type of work/person.

Generally in Western Europe in what I would call "Classical countries" like France & Germany, a conservative boss will find it bad taste (there is still that "old school 50s conformist mentality" in banks).

But I would say, on the sales/trading side, with alot of young people there, it would go unnoticed. Of course if the tattoo is impossible to notice (small/hidden by clothes), there is a dont ask dont tell policy

 

Tattoos are lame, unless you do what I do. I tattoo a tally mark for every chick I slay onto my chest.

When I'm among work colleagues and they ask what the tallies mean, I tell them the truth, which usually prompts surprise and then often a round of high-fiving. All the analysts revere me, all the partners live vicariously through me, and the hottest girl who maintains eye contact while high-fiving gets added to the chest later.

 

I'm an analyst at a hedge fund and have a pretty large tat. Got it in high school, it was an impulsive decision at the time, but I like having it because it reminds me of the unconventional path I took to my seat today. No one at my firm has seen it, and there is no need for them to. When I was on the sell-side, a bunch of the guys saw it, no biggie.

 
fearandloathinginca:

how old and established are you? how many levels of people do you need to answer to? do you work at a conservative place or a liberal place?

I'm an intern with a FT offer. I'm at a pretty laid-back place, but I have no idea where I'll be in 5 years. I'm looking for general sentiment on the Street and in the business world in general. I'm thinking I'll just get the upper arm and body ones, which are the ones I want most right now, and get more visible ones once I'm more established.
heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 
thebrofessor:

think about the most casual you'd ever be in a business interaction. for most, this is sailing or playing golf (shorts & short sleeves). if it's visible, I wouldn't get it. if not, no one except girls and your doctor will know, and I say go for it.

I know this is the "right" thing to do (second to not getting any), but I don't want to tip toe around life worried what people will think all the time. I'm educated and responsible and all that shit, but I like tattoos too; don't know why, but I do. I've given up on trying to understand why I want the things I want in life. I should be able to get them and it shouldn't hinder me just because they're associated with the lower class.

But on the other hand, I think that there isn't anything wrong with stereotyping and wouldn't blame anyone for doing it because stereotypes are based on observations, so...

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

General sentiment would be that it's not a good idea (can't make a judgement on whether it's "bad"). No one here at the fund (large, laid back) I work at has visible tattoos (have been in more than one casual/social setting where people are wearing shorts/short sleeves).

 

When I see someone in a work context with visible tattoos, I consciously start questioning how serious the person is about their career. Then my intellect kicks in, I rationalise that it's cool etc. But my initial conscious reaction is still a question mark.

I can expect my subconscious reaction is even more negative and less open to reason.

Some of my best (non-banker) friends have tattoos. I had one tattooed friend who was into BSDM and had a custom-built "vacc sack", where you could get inside, have all the air sucked out of the sack and then just breathe through an air tube while encased in skin-tight vinyl. I tried this a few time and had nitrous oxide pumped into the airtube.

So, I like to think I'm a fairly liberal sort of guy. If my initial reaction to tattoos visible in the workplace is negative, imagine how your average banker thinks consciously and subconsciously about visible tattoos.

DISCLAIMER: Advice may not be relevant as the "average" banker is into crazier stuff, like watersports or nanny porn. That's probably the case for ex-public school bankers in London, at least.

Those who can, do. Those who can't, post threads about how to do it on WSO.
 
SSits:

When I see someone in a work context with visible tattoos, I **consciously** start questioning how serious the person is about their career. Then my intellect kicks in, I rationalise that it's cool etc. But my initial conscious reaction is still a question mark.

I can expect my **subconscious** reaction is even more negative and less open to reason.

Some of my best (non-banker) friends have tattoos. I had one tattooed friend who was into BSDM and had a custom-built "vacc sack", where you could get inside, have all the air sucked out of the sack and then just breathe through an air tube while encased in skin-tight vinyl. I tried this a few time and had nitrous oxide pumped into the airtube.

So, I like to think I'm a fairly liberal sort of guy. If my initial reaction to tattoos visible in the workplace is negative, imagine how your average banker thinks consciously and subconsciously about visible tattoos.

DISCLAIMER: Advice may not be relevant as the "average" banker is into crazier stuff, like watersports or nanny porn. That's probably the case for ex-public school bankers in London, at least.

hahahahaha hahaha that made me lol for about 5 minutes. you're killing me hahaha

 

I'd say keep them hidden if you can. At the end of the day if you love a design enough to wear it on your body for life then go for it. As much as I'd love to have a full sleeve I haven't started on one yet.

It sounds like where you want to start is fine. By the time you're ready to get tattoos below the elbow you might be in a much more accommodating industry, or you will have made your bones so that no one doubts your ability. As an example when I worked in IB someone having visible tats would have been unimaginable. Now that I'm on the corp fin side some of my co-workers will have their tats showing, depending on the team. On the other hand, my boss has a full sleeve tattoo, but always wears long sleeves (you can still see where the tattoo terminates just above the wrist though). The corp dev group is a bit more buttoned up though so it would likely not sit well with my superiors if I were to wear a polo with lower arm tats.

 
Best Response

I'm about 40 and got a couple of tattoos while I was in high school/college before I had a clue what I wanted to do with my life. The best bit of advice I got was from an older neighbor who was a former marine who did very well in the business world afterwards and had some ink: don't get it where someone can see it if you're wearing short sleeves or shorts if you want to be in the professional world, finance or business. You will end up in a casual situation someday-golfing, boating, afternoon party at a beach house, whatever-wearing a polo and shorts and people will judge. You can argue all you want about the rightness of people judging but they simply will. No one will ever see the tattoos if it's above your short sleeve shirt sleeve unless you're somehow swimming or in a hot tub and if you get to that point, you're beyond quick judgements because of a tattoo. Just don't do it, and that's coming from a PE guy with two tattoos.

 
Dingdong08:

I'm about 40 and got a couple of tattoos while I was in high school/college before I had a clue what I wanted to do with my life. The best bit of advice I got was from an older neighbor who was a former marine who did very well in the business world afterwards and had some ink: don't get it where someone can see it if you're wearing short sleeves or shorts if you want to be in the professional world, finance or business. You will end up in a casual situation someday-golfing, boating, afternoon party at a beach house, whatever-wearing a polo and shorts and people will judge. You can argue all you want about the rightness of people judging but they simply will. No one will ever see the tattoos if it's above your short sleeve shirt sleeve unless you're somehow swimming or in a hot tub and if you get to that point, you're beyond quick judgements because of a tattoo. Just don't do it, and that's coming from a PE guy with two tattoos.

This is spot on.

I'm talking about liquid. Rich enough to have your own jet. Rich enough not to waste time. Fifty, a hundred million dollars, buddy. A player. Or nothing. See my Blog & AMA
 

Face tats or you're not fully committed.

Seriously though, people will judge you if you have tattoos. The designer/UX guy I work with has full sleeves and neck tattoos that are always visible. He's super successful, but in a creative role where it's definitely not a hindrance. His wife is a programmer at a tech company and has tattoos and pick the color of the week hair, usually pink or purple. It also hasn't hurt her career.

Where it does have an impact is in their personal lives. They've mentioned that they have issues with other parents making comments at school events for their kids and recently ran into some issues when shopping for a New House in really high end neighborhoods. People automatically think they aren't successful because of how they look/dress. Together they probably make $500k/year.

It's not super relevant to finance, but I've always thought it was interesting that they knowingly open themselves to criticism. I'm also surprised by the comments/looks that they get from people that they don't even know.

 
VikrumBandit:

If you really HAVE to get your Koi fish, tribal, lotus flower, and chinese symbols then go for it. It's really no big deal. One of the VP's at the BB firm i work for has a visible leg tattoo i saw while golfing.

How the fuck did you get into a BB?

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

Getting tattoos is fucking stupid, period. I don't care whatever reasons you have. If you've made the mistakes while you were still a dumbass in highschool, fine. But if you are about to start a professional career and thinking of getting a tattoo that is potentially visible to your clients, then I sure hope that'll be a career limiting decision you will make.

If you are a damn genius that can simply kick everyone's ass, maybe nothing will ever stop you from climbing up the corporate ladder, but sadly most of the time you are fungible.

 
vik2000:

Getting tattoos is fucking stupid, period. I don't care whatever reasons you have. If you've made the mistakes while you were still a dumbass in highschool, fine. But if you are about to start a professional career and thinking of getting a tattoo that is potentially visible to your clients, then I sure hope that'll be a career limiting decision you will make.

If you are a damn genius that can simply kick everyone's ass, maybe nothing will ever stop you from climbing up the corporate ladder, but sadly most of the time you are fungible.

Making broad generalizations is what's fucking stupid.

I'm starting out with an EGA on one shoulder and I want a Ukrainian trident on the other. And I want 4-5 parts of a series of paintings I own on my body. Gonna hold off on anything a polo and shorts won't cover.

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

Well I personally don't believe this would be a good idea. Especially working in corporate america where many individuals are judgmental. I believe the most you should do is stick with just the tattoos on the upper arms. I hope this helps.

 
HFer_wannabe:

But seriously, how BA would it be to come in one day with a Mike Tyson. Bet your MD wouldn't dare throw work at you on a Friday night anymore

Or any night. Or day.
heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

Tattoos below the elbow unfortunately have a good chance of hindering your career. Sure you can cover it up, but if you ever have to take a company medical exam, the doctor might take note, and in out-of-the-office events with coworkers somebody might see. If this happens, you will probably get a stern talking-to from your MD for not committing and getting a full-body tat, or at least some Mike Tyson-style face tribals. You don't wan't this. Either go all the way, or keep yourself ink-free.

 

@SSits should not have to wait for me to get credits before getting a SB. Never heard of a vacc sack, you learn something new every day.

Semper Fi, OP, I know plenty of jarheads w/ tattoos working in professional careers (incl BB) and as has been said, just use common sense on placement.

Now my one guy who got two full sleeves done is a Hell's Angel, so exit opps start to change, but I assume you weren't going that far.

 
Scott Irish:

@SSits should not have to wait for me to get credits before getting a SB. Never heard of a vacc sack, you learn something new every day.

Semper Fi, OP, I know plenty of jarheads w/ tattoos working in professional careers (incl BB) and as has been said, just use common sense on placement.

Now my one guy who got two full sleeves done is a Hell's Angel, so exit opps start to change, but I assume you weren't going that far.

Yup, gonna take it slow for starters. Kill, bro

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

Aside: So my sister's friend's ex boyfriend is a tattoo artist and painter. He painted these 3 paintings and they hung in my sister's apartment:

http://tinypic.com/r/nosymc/8

She got married and her husband hates them, so they've been mine for the last 6 years. I've been planning on getting the umbrella girl on my rib cage. My sister and bro-in-law took me to dinner the other night and I told her I was planning on getting that tattooed and she sad that umbrella girl is supposed to be her.... leaving her troubles behind or some shit.

Anyway, I just thought that was cool. And I want it tattooed just because I love how it looks and I've been staring at it for 6 years.

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

I'm buy-side, client facing, and I have tats. None visible in shorts or a polo. I have known one guy with visible tats in my ~10 years that was successful. It extended down to halfway down his forearm. That's it. Out of hundreds of colleagues, one guy had tats visible in short sleeves and never had his sleeves rolled up in office once.

Do what you want to do. Could visible ones hurt you? Yes. Can non-visible ones hurt you? No.

"It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed." Theodore Roosevelt
 

This is the ticket, OP. You can wear a suit without anyone knowing. Plus, you have sweet Yakuza exit opps.

Seriously, I am not a fan of tattoos and I am pretty sure that I am in the majority. I agree with sentiments here. Do whatever you want, as long as it's not visible, because most people will definitely judge. I just want to add that most people regret getting their tattoos in the first place, as well.

On a side note, most people's reasons for getting tattoos are pretty lame. I think that many make the decision to get one, and then try to rationalize it as being a good idea. One girl I know was telling me the meaning of her sparrow tattoo. I told her that it basically the pace car of Manhattan girl tattoos. So much for "expressing" yourself, and being original.

Please don't quote Patrick Bateman.
 

I have one tattoo on my right a** cheek I got the day I turned 18, directly after lacrosse practice. I had always wanted one, and was young, dumb and fearless. My rationale was that I wanted it to be a SECRET, and the main purpose was as a memento of my youth. I wanted to be able to look in the mirror (naked) when I'm 40 and stressed out and tired, and be able to smile and laugh at myself and remember the kid I used to be.

I paid good money and the tattoo itself is extremely well done and intricate.

Make no mistake, if you are a white collar professional and have a tattoo - people WILL judge you...if they know about it. It is human nature and unfortunately mainstream culture stigmatize them as "alternative". I grew up white and middle-upper class (like 90% of the Wall St./Finance) but had a tremendous upbringing in which I learned that judging people is weak. Tattoos are elective expressions (genuine or not) that should only mean something to those they belong to; don't get a tattoo because you want to be perceived a certain way by others b/c I won't work out for you.

My close friends, HS lacrosse team, and my girlfriend, are the only ones that know about it and I intend to keep it that way (it's on my butt for God's sake). I think it's a shame society sees tattoos the way they do, but I don't have the credentials (yet) to change their mind. Honestly, if a HF manager has full sleeves but is able to generate ridiculous alpha, are you monkeys going to tell you wouldn't invest with him b/c of the ink in his skin? It truly is time society began evaluating people based on their merits, and not appearances but alas, perception is reality and that in an inarguable truth. We are a far cry from this, especially in the upper echelons of finance.

To the OP, do what you want, but be damn sure you know what the consequences and sacrifices are associated with your freedom of expression. Rant over.

 
csupp6:

I have one tattoo on my right a** cheek I got the day I turned 18, directly after lacrosse practice. I had always wanted one, and was young, dumb and fearless. My rationale was that I wanted it to be a SECRET, and the main purpose was as a memento of my youth. I wanted to be able to look in the mirror (naked) when I'm 40 and stressed out and tired, and be able to smile and laugh at myself and remember the kid I used to be.

I paid good money and the tattoo itself is extremely well done and intricate.

Make no mistake, if you are a white collar professional and have a tattoo - people WILL judge you...if they know about it. It is human nature and unfortunately mainstream culture stigmatize them as "alternative". I grew up white and middle-upper class (like 90% of the Wall St./Finance) but had a tremendous upbringing in which I learned that judging people is weak. Tattoos are elective expressions (genuine or not) that should only mean something to those they belong to; don't get a tattoo because you want to be perceived a certain way by others b/c I won't work out for you.

My close friends, HS lacrosse team, and my girlfriend, are the only ones that know about it and I intend to keep it that way (it's on my butt for God's sake). I think it's a shame society sees tattoos the way they do, but I don't have the credentials (yet) to change their mind. Honestly, if a HF manager has full sleeves but is able to generate ridiculous alpha, are you monkeys going to tell you wouldn't invest with him b/c of the ink in his skin? It truly is time society began evaluating people based on their merits, and not appearances but alas, perception is reality and that in an inarguable truth. We are a far cry from this, especially in the upper echelons of finance.

To the OP, do what you want, but be damn sure you know what the consequences and sacrifices are associated with your freedom of expression. Rant over.

I was talking to our PR girl and she told me that she got a very angry letter from an investor once complaining that one of our PMs went on CNBC without a tie.

heister: Look at all these wannabe richies hating on an expensive salad. https://arthuxtable.com/
 

Be very conscious that the tattoo may be visible through certain dress shirts. I have a coworker that has a tattoo on each forearm and a tattoo on both upper arms. Sometimes he wears a light colored dress shirt with no t-shirt underneath and they're all visible. Even with a t-shirt, the forearm tats are visible. Yea very thin dress shirts would do this, but just a heads up.

Try and go as long as you can without getting the tat. Those that say tattoos are forever (not that you said this) are idiots...you die, your body decays, tattoo=gone.

 

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>Incoming Ash Ketchum, Pokemon Master >Literally a problem, solve for both X and Y, please and thank you. >Hugh Myron: "Are there any guides on here for getting a top girlfriend? Think banker/lawyer/doctor. I really don't want to go mid-tier"
 

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Life, liberty and the pursuit of Starwood Points
 

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