[broadsword]

Yes. Tattoos, purple Mohawks and chunks of metal stuck through the face DO shout something about people. And I am glad they have them. It makes it easier to figure out who to avoid when competence, trust and stability matter.

[ClearCase_guy]

Agreed. I especially like this line:

All it says to me is "I'm really not thinking ahead."

When I was young, I had long hair, and I thought it was just terrible that so many people formed a bad opinion of me at first sight. Well, looking back on it, I was no angel. I was not reliable. I broke laws. My long hair told the story more accurately than I thought.

[Cogadh na Sith]

It makes it easier to figure out who to avoid when competence, trust and stability matter.

How about hidden tattoos?

I've a reputation at work for competence, trustworthiness and stability, yet I have big ol' tattoos hidden under my shirt.

Would you have periodic strip inspections of employees to determine if they are still competent at their jobs?

What if I'm competent, trustworthy and stable and get a tattoo, do I become incompetent, untrustworthy and unstable?

If so, does that change occur immediately when the tattoo needle punctures the skin? Or after the tattoo heals?

Furthermore, Is a person who gets a good tattoo, and likes it, more stable than one who changes her mind and gets it removed?

I await your fascinating insights with breath abated....

[Mr. K]

I agree- I am all for tattoos, piercings, etc.

We probably couldn't get the stupid people to put a giant red S on their forehead, but they do this WILLINGLY~~!!

[Phantom Lord]

Yes. Tattoos, purple Mohawks and chunks of metal stuck through the face DO shout something about people. And I am glad they have them. It makes it easier to figure out who to avoid when competence, trust and stability matter.

I have resembled that remark in the past and could still probably fail your trustability test. I am in a small minority that you would be wrong. But your test will serve you well and I follow it myself.