Woman Confronts Employees After Accusing Them Of Rejecting Her Job Application Because Of Tattoos

A woman who was turned down for a job at TJ Maxx decided to confront the manager who rejected her application.

Ash Putnam had recently applied to work at the well-known retail chain but did not get the job and sought an explanation for the decision.

She took her story to TikTok, explaining in a video, "So, I applied for a job at TJ Maxx a few weeks ago and they denied my application.

They couldn't even call me, they just sent me some automated email so I went in today and was like 'So, what was the reason I didn't get hired?'"

Ash Putnam recently applied for a job at TJ Maxx. Instagram / @ashxobrien

During her conversation, the manager informed her that the issue was her lack of experience compared to other candidates.

However, Ash suspected that her tattoos might have been the real reason behind the decision.

She has several visible tattoos, including on her neck, face, and arms.

These are often seen as problematic by employers, especially in roles that involve interacting with customers.

She questioned the manager about this, saying: "I asked her if it was about my tattoos, obviously 'cause I know a lot of places don't like tattoos.

"She said that wasn't the reason - I don't feel like that's true, but whatever."

Ash expressed her frustration, adding: "I hate that my tattoos are such a defining factor for me getting a job or not.

"Like, just because I have tattoos doesn't mean I'm not going to be a good worker. Some of the most smart and intelligent people I've ever met are people with tattoos and piercings."

In her TikTok video, which has garnered over 8.5 million views, Ash also raised concerns about the job market for younger individuals, questioning how teenagers and young adults can secure employment if places like TJ Maxx prioritize candidates with more experience.

The video quickly went viral, sparking a lively debate in the comments section.

One commenter, identifying as an HR supervisor, stated: "There is no way any company would put you in front of customers." 

Another pointed out that it might specifically be Ash's face tattoos that were the issue, saying: "I have tattoos everywhere but my face… but I can get a job anywhere."

A father commented: "Thank you for giving me ammo for talking to my daughter about tattoos," indicating a generational view on the issue.

Meanwhile, another person remarked: "Most times, when you flip the bird at society, society flips one right back."

A tattoo enthusiast shared their personal experience, noting:

"I have 666 on my neck and have facial tattoos, I never apply at customer-facing positions because although I know it is self-expression, I know it won't always sit well with everyone."