Message #21504

[countrigal]

Just an FYI regarding my tongue ring...  Since most of my office mates are unaware that I have it (and yes, when they think you have one they do ask) I feel secure in saying that you can't hear it click my teeth when I talk (Andrea, did you hear it?) and I don't toy with it unless I'm all alone (because I don't care to see my own tongue, why put someone else thru the agony of seeing it?).  In fact, I have worked in this office almost a year and just last week my closest working companion noticed something on my tongue and asked me if I had it pierced.  The reason it was noticeable?  Over the weekend I put in a green and black ball (glows under a black light) so that when hubby and I went to the club it was noticeable.  I forgot to change it back, and unlike the reddish one, this is more "visible" because of the color contrast.  She still wasn't sure she saw anything, but had to ask.  (btw... the tongue is a muscle and if the ring is removed for anywhere from a couple of hours to 48 hours, the hole will be closed and will appear like it was never there, one of the reasons I wasn't too worried about getting it pierced.  When I'm tired of it, or outgrow it, I can remove it and it will be like it never was there.)

As for 5 pieces of jewlry.... man do I have that shot.  I wear 2 rings on my right hand (black hills silver normally, very simple pieces), my wedding ring and diamond on my left, always a necklace of some sort, and then anywhere from no earrings to 2 pairs and an odd-ball (up to 5 seperate pieces there alone).  When I wear my hair up, I tend to wear only one pair of earrings, but when it's down I tend to put them all or most in.  I just don't feel "dressed to the shoes" if I don't have a necklace on, and all my rings, plus my watch.  Guess I've blown that from the start.  But so far I don't think it's hurt my career.  I've progressed faster in my career than others around me and I believe it's because even though I have more jewelry on than y'all state, it's understated (I don't wear big chunky earrings, gaudy rings, or bulky necklaces) and completes an overall professional image.  (and the tongue ring stays out of sight!)

So back to my original question...How do we, working professionals, hire or not hire folks because of body art?  Are we to say that all these kids who are out searching for who they are will be unemployable in mainstream jobs when they turn 18 (or whatever) and head out into the world?  If so, as parents should we prohibit our kids from any piercings that are somewhat permanent?  (btw... the tongue is a muscle and if the ring is removed for anywhere from a couple of hours to 48 hours, the hole will be closed and will appear like it was never there.)  And is it a misrepresentation of yourself to "hide" body art (like I do with my flat, flesh-tone ball) when interviewing and going to meetings, when that's not what is worn/used/done normally?

CountriGal
Deskdemon Editorial Board Member