How Acceptable are Piercings for Men in Accounting?
Hi everyone, I’m a recent Accounting graduate with experience from an internship at a Big 4 firm. I’ll be starting a new job at a different firm in July. Currently, I have my ears and nose pierced, but I removed them for my internship. I’m considering getting more piercings, but I’m concerned about appearing unprofessional at my new job, especially since I wouldn’t be able to remove them once they’re fully healed.
Is it better to wait a year or two before getting new piercings, or should I go ahead and get them now and then remove them for work after they heal?
EDIT: While I do take out my piercings when I’m at work, the feedback I’m getting indicates that they’re generally not accepted in the industry. It’s disappointing because I’d love to express myself with more piercings, but I prioritize my career. I think I’ll hold off on any new piercings for now. Maybe once I advance to a managerial or partner level, I’ll reconsider, as it seems like the consequences would be less severe at that point. Thanks for all your advice!
One response
It’s great that you’re considering your professional image while also wanting to express yourself. The financial services industry, especially in Accounting, tends to have more traditional views on appearance and professionalism, particularly in client-facing roles. While attitudes are evolving and some firms are becoming more accepting of personal style, it still varies widely depending on company culture and location.
Since you’re starting a new job, it might be wise to err on the side of caution initially. Waiting until you feel more established in your position could be a good strategy. This way, you can gauge the culture of your new workplace and see how others express themselves before making additional changes.
Remember that maintaining professionalism doesn’t mean you can’t express your individuality. You might find a balance that works for you, such as keeping earrings in when it’s appropriate or exploring less visible body art. Ultimately, your career is important, but there may be opportunities in the future to express yourself more freely once you’ve established your position and built relationships within the company.
Good luck with your new job, and keep in mind that there are often ways to be both professional and true to yourself!