AI startup apologizes after offering interviews for logo tattoos

An AI startup in California has apologized after offering job interview opportunities to individuals who agreed to get a tattoo of its logo. Jordan Gietz, co-founder of Lemonlime, a five-person AI automation solutions company, made the offer at a startup event. While the event invitation mentioned a "surprise gift" for attendees, it did not specify it would involve tattoos.

“

Seven people got permanent tattoos at the YC afterparty.

However, a tattoo artist was present at the event, and designs of the company's logo were prepared. Gietz later posted on LinkedIn, stating that seven people got permanent tattoos and suggesting it was a way to secure employment in 2026. He claimed all participants had already been offered interviews, though he added that getting a tattoo did not guarantee employment. Gietz also shared photos of participants getting tattooed without their explicit consent, leading one individual to request the removal of their image.

The controversial offer came at a time when the U.S. job market for new graduates is particularly challenging. According to a survey by the job platform Indeed, entry-level job postings decreased by 7.5% in May compared to the previous year, with nearly half of applicants for these roles having over 10 years of experience.

“

I should have foreseen the pressure and power dynamics that arise when linking tattoos to job interviews.

Following the backlash, Gietz issued an apology, acknowledging that he should have foreseen the pressure and power imbalances associated with linking tattoos to job interviews. He stated that he had spoken with all participants and offered to cover removal costs for anyone who regretted the decision. "I crossed the line, and I was wrong," Gietz said.

“

I crossed the line, and I was wrong.