It is hard to find a job in this economy when you are qualified. It is even harder when  your choice of self expression becomes an obstacle you have to hurdle.

Some companies will look the other way while others may not. Still, the chances of climbing the corporate ladder are slightly difficult if you have body art or any type of body modification.

Unfortunately, this means that if you have any of these, your name may more than likely end up at the bottom of the applicant stack. If you’re the type of person who is not willing to hide their tattoos, piercings or body modifications, it is fine to stick to your guns, but it will not help you earn the money that it takes to make a living supporting yourself or a family.

When Fresno City College Business Major Albert Avila first started looking for work, it was difficult.

“When I first started looking for work, I started out looking for  bank jobs since I had cash handling experience, but because I have a tattoo on my neck, I feel that was the real reason I was never called back for a second interview, even though I had the experience they were looking for,” said Avila.

In spite of this, it does not mean that you do not have a lot of options as far as employment is concerned. Some employers do not mind if employees have visible body art or body modifications. You just might not like the jobs or work schedules that are available to you.

FCC Criminology Major Monica Aguirre has been working for a recognized insurance company that is currently listed on Forbes list of Fortune 500 companies. For  six years she has been working for this company, and throughout that time she has acquired several visible tattoos. She is employed full-time but also has to work long hours and sit at a computer all day.

“I have an employer who could care less about how many tattoos I have, as long as I am working my eight hours and at my desk, to them I am a replaceable number,” said Aguirre.

Not liking the job still does not mean you cannot make a living.

“I eventually found a job, but the hours are practically graveyard, and I work in a warehouse, but it does pay more than if I would have worked for a bank,” said Avila.

However if you use good common sense you should not have a problem finding a job you like as well.

CALWORKS Counselor Charles Bailey has been in the education field and a counselor for 10 years  and says that anyone who is looking for a job should consider the messages they are sending through their form of expression. Wearing the right clothing can help you cover up your art and strengthen your employment chances.

“For all employers, perception is reality. Think of it as your only chance to advertise yourself and be your own commercial. Exposing less can lead to a lot more,” said Bailey.

So the next time you are considering getting a tattoo, piercing or body modification, consider your pros and cons and ask yourself if it is really worth the risk, because today’s form of expression might lead to tomorrows form of regression.