My secretary has just got a tattoo on her arm. It is of a flower, but it is completely visible. Should I fire her?

Question

It is against company policy, and looks tacky. She said she got it because all of her girl friends got one, and it holds special meaning for her.

But she knows that we have a strict dress code that includes hairstyle, piercings and tattoos.  By all rights, I am within my power to let her go.  But, I think that is really harsh.  I just think that she fell under a spell of peer pressure and forgot that she has an image to maintain at work.  Afterall, that is part of the reason why she was hired.

I am toying around with the idea of changing her job position to something not so visible.  That way I can still keep her, and she can still earn money, and keep her tattoo.  However, she will not like the options.  The only positions that I have that allows an employee not to follow the dress code is the Cleaning Lady, and the dock-workers.  I don't think that she'll make a good "loading girl", so housekeeper it is.

How can I address this issue in a positive light to her, or should I just go by the book and fire her?

, · Answer

Inform her that having the tattoo is breaking company policy.  If she doesn't cover the tattoo, you will have to fire her.  Problem solved.

k w · Answer

Our company had light jackets issued to people to wear on the job or not. it was a plain blue smock with their name on one side and company logo on the other side. it was made from a lightweight fabric. If you had something similar, she could be told to cover it up by wearing her smock. but not sure the dress code or company image may be affected. So you can remind her that she violated company policy, and you are offering her a different position or termination ! Then have her choose which one she prefers.  good luck

Anonymous · Answer

Long sleeves, problem solved.

Rosalie · Answer

Well, do you want your job or not?
Company policy existed before she stupidly followed her little friends. It isn't professional, and affects her image in her position. It affects your status as her boss.

I agree with Squidmaster. If she worked for me, she'd be packing up her things - and I am in management.

Don&#39;t Fear The Reaper · Answer

Merely insist she wear long sleeves. Offer to buy some. How HARD is that? Explain it to her. Don't trot this minor horsesh-t matter in front of the world and behind her back. Cowardly.

Slickterp · Answer

If the company has a clear policy, which she should be aware of, then you tell her it has to be covered in accordance with policy.  That seems pretty simple.  Just wear sleeves such that she is covered up.

Karen · Answer

I had an employer who was an old timer as yourself. Give her the option to stay covered at work or you'll have to let her go.

They make makeup that covers tattoos easily and lasts all day.

Squidmaster · Answer

If it is policy, and he knew this before she got the tattoo, then you are within your rights to discipline her.
My suggestion, if it possible, is to speak to her and ask her to make sure it is covered with long sleeves or something like that. If she is unwilling, then she is in violation of the dress policy and therefore the terms of her employment.

Anonymous · Answer

In the incredibly unlikely event that you are actually in a position where you could hire, fire, or effectively recommend same, I would seriously reconsider ever doing business with a company that put you in such a position of authority.

Maxi · Answer

So you policies don't mean anything and you are changing them for her, which means every other employee can sue you

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My secretary has just got a tattoo on her arm. It is of a flower, but it is completely visible. Should I fire her?

12 Answers