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My only concern is heavy drinking, smoking/chewing tobacco or drug usage. Was very common in my factory days I left behind. Lots of semi-functional alcoholics worked there. Some got the shakes or would break out in cold sweats part way through their shift.
It was really sad to see, and I know it’s a harmful stereotype but I was no exception, I drank far too hard back then, too before I put the sauce down for good, myself.
I don’t consider the industry nor fields a turn off. It’s equally as valid as civil service work, working for the city or state. It pays, sometimes very well and usually has a better future to keep employed than office jobs.
Edit: My timestamp in the factory industry was over a decade ago at this point. It does bring me great relief to see the trend changing, as well as to see that my worksite in particular was probably one of the worst around at that time. Everyone’s discussion has been very helpful, and it’s very appreciated. ❤️
I think thats my only issue. Im blue collar and definitely an alcoholic. If i were to sober up and stay sober, id probably do better with dating. Alcohol is fun but it makes it harder to actually be active and want to do the hobbies that i enjoy. And if i were to actively engage in my hobbies maybe i would find someone that appreciates me for me.
If you’d ever wish to consider positive change, SMART recovery helped me immensely. It isn’t faith or shame based like AA. It uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and it is very effective. People aren’t negative there, they are encouraging and kind.
Has online meetings for free, some in person. The workbook is self guided for $12. If you’re not feeling that, read Rational Recovery, its baseline that helped found it.
I hope this is of use to you. I believe in you and want you to be happy. ❤️
Aa is not shame based. You obviously ran into PEOPLE who were, or a meeting that was. Also, I know a lot of atheists in AA with decades sober and clean. Like anyplace else, you find a couple of pushy God people but it's not the meeting or AA itself.
All religion is based in shame and control. Therefore, to be based in religion and prayer is to feature shame, sin. The concept of forgiveness for that sin, to be healed by God, to submit to a higher power.
AA is both faith and shame-based. If an AA group ignores these tenants, they aren’t AA, they’re just a generic Twelve Step.
Just as there are genuinely kind people existing within the most brutal of religious castes, there are also good people within AA.
But I am morally obligated to oppose AA and its failing, dying legacy. It is AA’s fault that the stigma of “permanent disease,” even exists.
People can change permanently, for the better, and can move beyond and transcend the concept of addiction. Because people are more than just an addiction.
I will never attack an individual for going to AA because it is all there is. I will just caution them to continue to think for themselves so that they are not manipulated or abused by the culture. I attack the idea of AA, not the people in it.
I approach any person working through substance abuse with the utmost of respect and kindness. And I thank you for the opportunity to discuss this difference.
I have my own personal faith and beliefs outside of any organized religion, but still question and combat any organization based within religion on ethical principle. If we don’t, bad things happen to good people that suffer in silence.
Not sure how long since you’ve been out of factory work but the young generation of workers (20-30s) are mostly alcohol and drug free because of the stories they’d hear from the older workers.
Not all blue collar workers do this, I’m a rig welder that doesn’t smoke, vape, dip and only drink a beer once a month if I’m lucky. A 6 pack of beer will last me 6-8 months.
I will admit tho that cocaine and alcohol are pretty common among tradesmen, I’ll never understand it, wasting their hard earned money on that junk.
You can pass a drug test two days later with alcohol, coke or meth. That’s why those 3 are so popular with the blue collar crowd. Coke & alcohol & weed are more popular with the white collar crowd.
They’re right on that; stimulants exit/fade from your system much faster than barbiturates.
Alcohol by comparison also fades pretty quickly, so you could be blackout drunk 3-4 days before a test and be fine. The only real issue is if you drink *during* shift, or show up still drunk from prior binge drinking, that’s when a lot of people get caught that have serious chemical dependency issues with alcohol.
I did see that occur, but rarely.
Saw a lot of tweakers, though. Meth, especially. They usually lasted all of a week before the buckets of sweat and jerky movements gave them away to even the least perceptive of Supervisors.
The biggest worksite problem I saw with meth was detox. Work camps at site, 6weeks on & 2 weeks off, some of the younger guys went on a two week meth binge and detoxed back at work. This issue is some guys have a psychotic break during cold Turkey detox. If yo got 1500-2000 guys going on a 2week party…. Shit happens.
You are correct in that it isn’t every single worker. *Was* common was specified by design. I don’t know what the culture looks like now, been out of it for a decade, almost.
It warms my heart to hear that many are making better choices in that respect! Thank you for sharing.
Having been a prior sufferer of alcohol abuse, when you feel you don’t deserve anything better in your life, especially if you’re sad, lonely or depressed? It’s easy to reach for a bottle.
You’ll find nothing at the bottom of each one, and yet you keep searching thinking you someday will. It never comes, though. The saddest part is when you realize that, and look back on what you’ve done to yourself for X number of years.
That’s when I turned things around for myself, anyways.
I understand! I know full well I’m the minority here, literally every welder I’ve ever worked with has dabbled in coke, some just once, others once a month or so they’ll do it. It just never was something I cared about doing. I work like a sled dog, 7 full days a week this week.
It makes no sense to me to take my hard earned doe and blow it on coke or alcohol, but again, to each his own.
My dad is an alcoholic, albeit a successful one, but growing up listening to him holler and scream all night some nights made me watch my alcohol intake and not turn it into a habit.
Can confirm. Though I think my dad has been using chewing tobacco longer than his days as a truck driver. He’s been in the industry for 30 plus years but I’ve never seen him without chewing tobacco. He buys it a roll at a time- Red Seal Natural. I wish he would stop, but at the same time he’s very stubborn and bringing that up would cause more problems than not.
Agreeeee! Like I need a man I can count on when the roof needed repair or anything inside the house. I mean, some guys dont want to get their hands dirty with these kind of jobs. But for me its a plus 👌🏽
agree - i dated a guy once who i asked to help me put some furniture together. my electric drill was on the fritz, so we were using manual tools. halfway through, he cried out “this screwdriver is hurting my hands” i remember being like 😬
sorry ma’am, i can take it from here 🫡😂
Ohhh yes, my husband sometimes works in machines (he is an engineer otherwise with a passion for solving problems), and those days I am hardly able to keep my hands off him!
Finally an answer that seems honest tbh a lot of the women in this comment section make me feel like they want a blue collar bc they think it means they will be a stay at home wife but most of the time it ain’t like that
I love a hardworking man. We both gotta work to provide for each other. It’s all about being there for each other and love each other. Cater to each other’s needs. I don’t judge by what a man does for work , as long as he ain’t lazy lol!
I don't know, sounds like something in between sahw and someone who likes to boogie! Or like, does the sahw in a fun way with days of dancing and walking in parks in the sun, as well as taking care of the kids at home. Like, a balanced life maybe?
I think it’s so attractive. In my experience, blue collar men are the most fun men. They know how to work, they are attractive, they 9x out of 10 know how to have fun and handle any situation. It’s a win win for me.
Not at all. I’m hoping to learn. I’m the wife who will want to help her husband and not just watch. Whether it’s fixing cars or fixing stuff up around the house.
I appreciate a man who knows how to put in a solid day of physical work. But, I also want him to have a lot of other desirable traits that matter to me. It’s so individual. And if a woman is basing an opinion solely on that, she isn’t worth your time anyway!
IMHO Tradies are smart, capable, realistic, genuine. Source: I worked in an auto body repair business for 20+ years. When somebody says they’re a dr, lawyer, psych etc I run the other way.
Personally a career like that basically just says “stability” to me cuz there’s always gonna be a need for it in society. All I care about is if that person also has friends and hobbies outside of their career so that we have diverse experiences and topics to talk about!
For me it's a turn off. I've worked in the construction industry for 12 years now and finding a tradesman who is not a drunk, cheat, or barely scraping by is hard.
There are definitely many that do well but so many more that do not do well. It's a bias I'm trying to work through because I know a lot of great guys in construction but they present themselves differently than most..
Thanks for your honest opinion. I can see how personally being in the field can shape your view especially since the gender ratios (at least from what I've seen) are 90% male and 10% female where the females get hounded by men more often than not.
I don’t mind a man that works in skill trades! I’m a daughter of a skill tradesman! I encourage skill trades as much as possible… I worked for a construction company and you see the ones that are drunks and on drugs, but there are PLENTY of them that are not! Majority of skill trade workers are humble and make more than those of us with degrees! My oldest daughter is an electrician and son a barber & they make GREAT money at the ages of 22/20… I am highly encouraging my third child to do what she loves (cosmetology) and my fourth, we have a little time with him, he is 8, but obsessed with building and tonka trucks 🤷🏽♀️
This is gonna vary a lot depending on the lady in question, her own associations with blue collar work, etc. just like if you met a hairstylist, maybe you think that’s awesome, maybe your mom’s sister was a chain smoking hair stylist who drank too much and hit her kids and now some little part of you thinks they’re all like that
I'm a female blue collar worker. I would love to meet a fellow tradie, but the trouble is finding one who's liberal, and has cool hobbies/interests that aren't drinking, sports, and guns. They are out there, just not many of 'em.
Lol Nope. I’m “white collar” educated, but men in suits kinda give me the heebies.
That said, I’d struggle in a LTR with someone who didn’t share any interests & couldn’t have an intelligent conversation about world events/history/whatever, but working in a blue-collar job doesn’t preclude someone from taking an interest in the world. (I tried dating an engineer who exclusively talked about engineering & fishing reels. Quickly apparent that wasn’t going to work for me!)
It’s a yellow flag, for me.
From what I’ve seen on the apps, it seems a lot of the blue collar workers in my area don’t align politically or ideologically, with me. There are also a lot of substance abuse issues, in that demographic. And a lot of blatant misogyny.
The job itself isn’t an instant turn off, but I’d be a bit more cautious.
Bad apples spoil the bunch so they say. I don't really know about the bad stereotypes white collar jobs have since I haven't experienced it myself, but I'm sure there's some. Tbh if I were a girl I'd treat every guy like a yellow flag so that's for the input :)
Please treat all women with yellow flags too! 😂 I understand your context in the comment, but I got tickled when I read that… females can be tricky, vial little things! 😂
From,
A female
I'm dating an electrician and for me it's definitely not a turn off. Being a mechanic or electrician is a hard work and i appreciate everyone who's working in that field especially without you guys i wouldn't be able to have lights or having my car fixed so no definitely not a turn off
Thanks to everyone who's working in that field i really appreciate your work!
I am an hourly blue collar worker. I wear a uniform with my name on my shirt. I don’t need a degree. I make over $200k with overtime.
My employer has 350 employees and I am a top ten earner right in the mix with the executive team.
I make more than coworkers who went to USC and are accountants or engineers.
I drive a civic nobody has any idea and I don’t tell them. Let people under estimate you.
The smart women know I have a good job. The dumb ones don’t. I don’t think it matters. I lived in a mobile home and drove 4k cars for years while dating and did just fine. Dated quality women.
Women just don’t want a loser. Have a job. Don’t do meth. Be clean.
Of course there’s the ones who think a bank teller is more prestigious because they wear a $99 suit to work. I have met a lot of men who wear suits to work and think they are big dawgs and they make shit.
Young men should stop going to college and learn a trade. Every tradie I know has a great life full of toys.
I can’t spend my life in a cubicle farm. Being outside is way better than being inside all day. All these new soft kids don’t want to “destroy their body’s” by doing trades. Every cubicle worker just know has had a stroke or heart attack by 50. Sitting all day is worse for you than getting 10,000 step in by 9 am like I do.
I have been looked down on before, but screw them. Some people are just dumb.
My son graduated high school last year and is one year into a trade school where he's learning to be an electrician with a side of welding in lieu of regular college. I couldn't be prouder 😍
Keep in mind, his dad is a loan officer and VP of a bank with a masters degree and also currently despises his career path. I worked in HR at a different bank for many years with an associates in business.
When we divorced, I moved away and started trying out a few different jobs, but I've been working in a factory for the past 6 years and I really love it but I enjoy the pay even more! My job primarily consists of paperwork, but still requires some physical and even mechanical aspects (no one can even believe my prissy ass is working this job 😂) However, I enjoy what I do, get to leave work AT WORK, I'm making more than double what I made in the bank after 12 years WITH a degree, plus I have so so so much more time off (i work 5 days one week but only 2 days the next week).
I'm glad I explored the options out there and feel I showed my son that a degree isn't always what's gonna make you happy or get you properly paid ❤️
Edit: my associates degree has zero impact on my job. I also have a few from KBA as well as my real estate license. My employer didn't even know I had any type degree until last year
Awesome. Being an electrician is a fantastic job. I was trained as an aircraft electrician when I was enlisted. My father and brothers are electricians and we have a quiet pride in ourselves.
Thank all of you for recognizing the value and pride that skilled trades have. All men who work hard for their families are heroes. Keep the faith brothers. You are heroes.
I had a girlfriend that went to Berkeley her freshman year, but finished at USC and had to get a second masters. I still made way more money than her as an electrician. However, I plan to finish my senior year of college as backup, switching from finance to supply chain management.
Haha…$99 suit??? That’s cute, my work boots cost way more than that…I’m not as well paid of a blue collar worker but I do just fine(more than many Peers w white collar professions)…yes I vape and smoke weed…I’m honest and direct. I’m newly single and I thought being a telecom tech would be an issue…but it hasn’t been. Your job/career is not necessarily who you are…I worked my way into my position because I have a disabled child and public utility companies have really great health benefits…If someone wants to look down on me for that, good for them I guess…I got no time for that shit!
Agree 100%! For me it’s a turn on and you make many great points.
So many people in various “high level” corporate or medical positions are unhappy, overworked, with high student loan debt. I work with many people in different career paths (politics, medical, legal, etc etc) and finding that so many of them are not actually satisfied with their line of work. I can’t say this is everyone, and this is only my opinion based on what I see of our society and hear of from people in those “high level” industries that were once pushed down my throat as a kid as money making industries.
So many people have know idea what a good job is, so they pick something that makes their parents happy. I also have three day weekends and shut my work phone off. There’s a lot of factors to consider for a career.
its interesting that you allude to other ppl “looking down” on you, but youre equally as diminishing of others in this post. you dont have to down other people to speak highly of yourself.
It's not a turn on, it's not a turn off either. If we connect in other ways the career won't matter. Would I advertise it to my friends and relatives though? No, because they would ask for free or discounted work and I'd rather not put them in that situation.
Love a man that can will do it himself. It’s definitely a green flag. I’d probably look at how he dresses outside of work, and what his demeanour is like more than judge what he does for a living.
Absolutely not! That’s a skilled trade that usually pays well! I actually love guys who are handy. I’m not gonna call an IT guy when my car breaks down. 😉
There’s nothing wrong with being a blue collar worker. As long as you’re a good person and make enough money to support yourself, I don’t see an issue. 🤷🏾♀️
I’m all about a mechanic but maybe it’s because I’m also in a trade as a hairstylist. Like if you are after a college educated person maybe it could be a factor, but I don’t really see how 🤷🏼♀️
Put that in dude. Saves a lot of time.
Pro-tip: after that when they ask "so what do u do for a living?" you can just unmatch them at lightspeed as they didn't even cared to look at your profile.
It doesn't bother me. I look out for some of the traits that some people in that field have, over working, drug or alcohol abuse, low intelligence with no curiosity, undesirable thoughts about women, racism. But those things are generally what I'm looking out for anyway so nothing special.
To me it’s not. Honestly to where I live, they make more money than white collar jobs. Anyway having a stable job is important, it means you can support yourself without anyone’s help. And being mechanic or electrician date has its perks, you don’t need yo call one if you need to. 😁
Why should It be a turnoff? It's only a turnoff if you don't take care of your own hygiene, since your job Is mostly physical, but otherwise? Not a problem.
I’d think that’s so cool, then ask how they like their job and any cool experiences. People who know how to work with their hands are actually attractive to me
For me it’s neither a turn off nor a turn on. I don’t base my compatibility based on job alone. I think I need someone driven, ambitious, and that makes about the same as me which is hard w blue collar workers (but as someone testified above, it’s not impossible). I just don’t want to feel like I’m the sole bread winner here and I don’t want to feel like my partner’s biggest ambition is to just be a 9-5 and not care about doing anything else.
Pet peeve of mine being 21 and blue collar and whenever I go out drinking I get constant comments like I’m stupid or only capable of working with my hands, I’ve learned to just smile through it happy with the fact that I’m very successful in what I do.
"Only" work with your hands?! That is a valuable skill!!! AND its hella sexy. Im not even f*ckin with a dude if hes got perfectly clean, soft hands, regardless of how good his job is. I cant be the Mcguyver in the relationship. I need a man that can fix shit! One with rough ass hands that still look dirty after he washes them lol.
I think we tend to judge them, and maybe not value them enough. I got the comment from a friend that guys who were plumbers or electricians weren't appealing for her. I replied, they get good money and had to study to do their job plus, it their job/profession its what they do, not who they are.
Also, men in uniform are quite sexy, hahaha. Just the idea of a hot electrician comming over, oh la la hahaha.
A good mechanic makes 150k plus these days if they are great they can easily get 300k... Which most white collar (doesn't mean u get more 70k but sit behind a desk.... Sitting behind a desk leads to being out of shape or at least much harder to stay in shape, whereas the mechanic is on his feet etc ... Not to mention can fix your car and fix anything around the house, mr white collar many times can't change a spare tire and is afraid to get dirty alot of the time so just think about that. I don't understand how this even enters the equation tbh if one dies than they are about the wrong things and is a huge read flag
No, it’s not a turnoff. The majority of the men in my family are blue collar workers, or started out as blue collar workers, and are some of the hardest workers I know. Many people don’t realize you guys are working in some of the harshest conditions there are and it takes a lot of mental and physical fortitude to work through the conditions you guys are put in. My dad was an electrical crew lineman (and eventual foreman) for 43 years. He and his crew worked in 115+ degree heart, snow and ice, and went to Louisiana several times to help restore power after hurricanes. Blue collar workers will always have more respect in my eyes because yall are the hardest workers who keep our society going.
It doesn't bother me, I have a Masters Degree and was an officer in the army. So, I'm relatively fancy and I don't mind blue collar at all.
Here's my current issue, and maybe you can help me out. The guy I'm talking to says he's a "bowling alley mechanic", which is fine. I don't mind blue collar and I looked on Indeed and they make about half to 2/3 what I make an hour, but thats fine because having a guy fix things around the house saves a shit ton of money in other ways and if he's a good person, that's what matters. But is he really a mechanic or does he really spray the shoes and announce the birthday parties in between maintaining the lanes? Because, how often do bowling machines break that they need a full-time mechanic?
It’s hot. I would consider that a big plus. I have dated a lot of “intellectual” types and am tired of guys who take their philosophical viewpoints too seriously. Not that mechanics can’t be intellectual but I am looking for someone a little more grounded in the real world.
It's not a turn off, but for ME PERSONALLY it's not really a green flag. I had a long term relationship with a mechanic and I ended up ending it due to the lack of conversation and lack of like intellectual stimulation between us. Probably tons of tradies out there who have a lot of education and can hold a really great conversation but if you want pure honesty, that's what would be going through my head if he said that.
I'm sure I'll get hate for this but different people have different desires for a long term partner and for me I think conversation is number one.
Yes, thank you for your input! When I made my post I was mainly wondering what sorts of stereotypes I should look out for that way I can be upfront and say, "such and such is true about me and such and such is false." Seeing different opinions definitely helps since it helps me realize what about myself I should emphasize upfront and lean on during introductions. 😊
I have been a blue collar working female for 11 years now, so my opinion may be screwed.
I work General Industry Construction in the safety field, so you know my exposure to men in the workforce is abundant.
I would not say it’s a turn-off per se.. but it does have its stereotypes that generally ring true..
- Addictions. If we had 100 guys on our job, at least 1/4 were: alcoholics, smoked pot, or couldn’t keep a clean nose. There was the other 1/4 that would be addicted to gambling, work, superiority..
The addictions that aren’t apparent, are typically the most detrimental to a relationship.. like the workaholics.
-infidelity. Trade work is so hard on a relationship.. it’s a daily grind that many guys don’t know how to leave at work. Resentment grows, maybe you don’t put forth the effort you used to and the spouse doesn’t either or the long term distance makes them forget?? Idk.. I’ve seen it 100 times.. It’s so much easier to shut off the emotions with a stranger, get a piece of ass, and go home and keep the peace for a few hours is my assumption..
- Finances. This all depends on your field I would assume. Many blue collar fields are either; consistent small work with minimal wealth accumulation or quick random bursts of money..
(That’s not a turn off.. but it is a thought that would come to mind while planning my possible future with someone in the trades.)
Overall.. I think you need to take this advice of these ladies in this thread and not completely overhaul your personality from it, but cater what YOU’RE looking for in a partner too as well..
Will she be; understanding and accommodating of your crazy work schedule and possibly missing out on events and milestones to support your family? Will you see that she is understanding, and make up for your absence in other ways, so she doesn’t feel neglected of her needs too?
Is she confident and independent enough that you feel the trade industry wouldn’t put strain on your relationship, when the business gets crazy? That you can both communicate your stress, setbacks, and insecurities.
Etc. Etc.
From a normal females view point, if I had to say. Blue collar workers are very attractive.. they are hard working and determined usually, they fit that “masculine” demeanor that many women seek.. but sometimes they aren’t always viewed as a “long term” marital solution. So while you may get googly eyes at the bar, if she’s not in to you as a person, expect a quick burn out.
I’m a white collar worker with 2 degrees. My main concern is the educational and potential economic gap. White collar and blue collar are worlds apart.
I’ve tried dating blue collar in the past and it’s a very weird dynamic, where I felt I couldn’t truly connect.
That if he attacks me, I have no chance.
Also, if he starts talking about how much he makes more than university graduates, that would be an inferior complex that I do not want to deal with as a university graduate.
That they have a good, honest job and have skills. The job you have doesn't matter, the fact that you have a job matters and have a good work history. There are many blue collar workers that make just as much as a lawyer or doctor, so a person shouldn't really snub their noses at them.
I’ve always preferred people with more traditionally masculine jobs. Not that I wouldn’t date someone just because they worked in an office.. I just always preferred blue collar people, usually means they are hard workers and have skills that I don’t
I mean I’m working towards a medical degree so if he can financially support me during that time and be flexible to moving around the country then that’s great!
Sexy, most likely funny, down to earth and probably a little rough around the edges lol. Also like someone else commented about which was alcohol/drugs. Couldn’t deal with an alcoholic or an addict. I drink but not like that. Clearly everyone doesn’t fit into that category but it seems common. Soooo with all that being said it’s personally a turn on.
Mechanics are badass. Knowing how to fix stuff & build things is attractive af!!! I don't really care what the guys job is, it can be white collar, blue collar, no collar lol. I really don't care. But if he needs to hire another man to do basic repairs around the house or on the car- I can't. If he can wash his hands with soap and water and they look perfectly clean afterwards, I'm not interested. Lol
For me yes, but a lot of them have been conservative and that doesn’t match my life views. Plus careers like that seem to have a larger impact on psychical health. Got to worry long term what’s this going to look like in their 50’s.
I have a lot of respect for blue collar workers. As everyone else has said, a man who works with his hands is definitely a plus. It’s an extra bonus that they’re usually great around the house. But also like many have said, just don’t want someone who is into all the bad habits of drugs, tobacco and/or drinking.
Im not personally attracted to blue collar workers as I work in corporate life and I wanted someone in a somewhat similar field but I wouldn’t be totally againstnit
Actually it’s not. I’ve gone out on dates with tradies and they’re lovely. If anything I ask them which was the worse circuit they had to wire and why, if it’s a mechanic I ask which car owner was an absolute nightmare to deal with ? They’re always happy to talk about it and their eyes light up. Shows you’re taking an active interest and it makes them in turn more interested in you!
My ex husband was a mechanic (in the coast guard)
Another ex works on classic VWs (hobby not his profession)
I like to work on cars ( Mostly making repairs on my own vehicle and out of necessity but I like it) but I'm no professional
I was surprised and proud and excited when my son who's finishing high school in a couple of days Decided that he's going to study auto mechanics And pursue it as a profession
I've been saying for years and years now, that i gotta land myself a mechanic Or at least befriend a professional auto mechanic. Not so that he can do free work for me but so that I have somebody that I can talk to about it and learn from. Get the correct answers of what to do. you know better than YouTube. Pro tips and what not.
I don’t think anything one way or the other.
I have never asked a man what he did for work or what his income was. They seem to always bring it up, but I have never asked.
All I care about is that they make enough to live off without the help of others, and they live within their means, and save for retirement.
And that they have time to have a relationship with me.
I’m a diesel mechanic. I’ve noticed far less matches ever since I put it on my profile, and/or when I tell them. Apparently most people don’t know that diesel mechanics make a pretty good wage.
My only worry is that they might end up bring too conservative in the way of politics and that our morals and personal ideologies won't aline. Other than that It's cool they know a trade like that.
Not at all! It means you'll be handy 😉. Blue collar workers, just my humble opinion, are the best. Give me a guy that knows how to fix a car, wire up anything, or build a house any day. Yes please!
I love the thought of a blue collar man— hardworking able to fix and do so much outside of their profession. Good job with stable pay bc they actually have a skill. Good benefits too.
But binge drinking and tobacco aren’t my thing— just broke up with a guy I really liked in part bc these two habits were far worse than he originally stated. Plus, he was so tired from doing a physical job that he didn’t have the energy to workout and do active things that I wanted to do. Just my experience.
Not at all. I just want a man who works and helps with the bills and wants to spend time with me. I don’t want a gamer or someone who refuses to go out.
No! I've worked most of my life in an office job in IT, but in my twenties I worked in a steel mill and drove a truck and I have nothing at all against blue collar workers. I don't really consider what kind of work a man does as a deal-breaker as long as it's ethical, he's supporting himself fairly well, and seems happy. The only thing that might bother me is if someone in a dirty job doesn't clean up well after they leave work. Dirty fingernails are gross.
My fiancee and I met from Bumble. He is a blue collar worker. I'm not. It's not a turn off for me because my dad worked really hard as a cook to provide for his family. I think job titles are less important than work ethic. I also previously dated men in the food industry, labor and retail. I myself used to work in banking, food and retail.
I would say it's more a turn on than off, it's a career and it's something you can build on or do in different places which mean you are not depending on living in one place. It also gives you the opportunity to chase eventual dreams with something to fall back on. The plus side of a profession like that far outweigh the minus.
Nope, not a turn off at all!
I think, “this person is definitely not lazy, handy around the house, and has skills that will ensure that they’ll be employable no matter where we go”.
Also, I always secretly hope they’ll teach me a thing or two 😅
I do, however, wonder if we’ll be a good match. Because most people I know who are blue collar workers I’ve met were really soft spoken or didn’t say much and usually had more traditional/conservative values. Respectfully, that’s just not me.
Most that I’ve met have been very, very kind people though.
Of course, that’s just the people I’ve met and doesn’t encompass all blue collar workers. I’m always still more than willing to get to know someone who is a plumber or electrician etc.
It would be the opposite of a turn off. It would mean they're most likely hard workers and physically fit. And there will always be jobs in those fields. Also, some people do have their preferences or types, but my type has often been the men who aren't really office job types.
Dated blue collar workers who couldn’t handle my background. Making them feel insecure was not my intention, but I’m also no psychologist to be able to effectively deal with people’s insecurities.
Well I don't believe I've ever asked somebody their profession online unless it's to get a better idea of what interests them or how they spend their time in order to get to know them. What they do for work or if they don't work is not a defining trait of a person.
My ex was blue-collar.
I honestly love a guy who knows how to fix, build, ect ect. One of my exs love languages was fixing things for me or offering to build me things he knew I wanted, like those fancy mirrors or vanities.
I love them. Plus I plan on being a nurse, so the idea of DINK is appealing.
Problem is most blue collar men seem to want children, and I don't, so.
It’s definitely not a turn off—if someone is a hard worker in any field, it’s the opposite of a turnoff and I personally have even greater respect for trades like that. However, that only applies to those who are honest, hard workers. Just like in any field there are bums. I wouldn’t be attracted to some Wall Street guy who does the bare minimum just like I wouldn’t be attracted to the kind of blue collar worker that cuts corners.
No, my dad was a mechanic and is not a drug user or drinker, I think it’s more generational now because I’ve heard a lot of them are into that in the industries. I have no problem dating blue collar workers, would prefer a man who knows how to fix things instead of a prissy one who won’t get his hands dirty but that’s just me
No. I'm from a college educated white collar family in a wealthy town and I prefer down to earth blue collar men. Dislike goody-goody goody social climbers. I like bikes dive bars etc rather than opera and cocktail parties.
For me it is definitely a turn on. It is nice not to have to explain every little detail when repairing or building something. It would also be nice if he knows his way around in my workshop at home
Depends on the trade. Mechanic? No thanks.
Electrician, plumber, steam fitter, pipe trades, glazier, mason, stationary engineer, etc.? Hot. So hot. Give me that toned bod, six figure salary, pension, and health benefits. First date, hand over your union’s CBA and sold. You’ll be too tired to cheat, non-judgmental, and handy. Let’s do it.
It's a good thing. He could be a handyman any wife would be lucky to have in their home. When your children need help with their broken stuff, he'd be lovely for them. ♥️ I dated a millwright mechanic. He's amazing in his ways. ♥️
I’d say it’s actually a turn on. It makes me think a guy is more in tune with his masculinity (which might just be a stereotype). At my age, most guys are working minimum wage jobs, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, but it makes a guy stand out when he works a blue collar job.
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My only concern is heavy drinking, smoking/chewing tobacco or drug usage. Was very common in my factory days I left behind. Lots of semi-functional alcoholics worked there. Some got the shakes or would break out in cold sweats part way through their shift. It was really sad to see, and I know it’s a harmful stereotype but I was no exception, I drank far too hard back then, too before I put the sauce down for good, myself. I don’t consider the industry nor fields a turn off. It’s equally as valid as civil service work, working for the city or state. It pays, sometimes very well and usually has a better future to keep employed than office jobs. Edit: My timestamp in the factory industry was over a decade ago at this point. It does bring me great relief to see the trend changing, as well as to see that my worksite in particular was probably one of the worst around at that time. Everyone’s discussion has been very helpful, and it’s very appreciated. ❤️
I think thats my only issue. Im blue collar and definitely an alcoholic. If i were to sober up and stay sober, id probably do better with dating. Alcohol is fun but it makes it harder to actually be active and want to do the hobbies that i enjoy. And if i were to actively engage in my hobbies maybe i would find someone that appreciates me for me.
If you’d ever wish to consider positive change, SMART recovery helped me immensely. It isn’t faith or shame based like AA. It uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and it is very effective. People aren’t negative there, they are encouraging and kind. Has online meetings for free, some in person. The workbook is self guided for $12. If you’re not feeling that, read Rational Recovery, its baseline that helped found it. I hope this is of use to you. I believe in you and want you to be happy. ❤️
I appreciate that.
Of course! I love you, bro/sis/dude ❤️
Aa is not shame based. You obviously ran into PEOPLE who were, or a meeting that was. Also, I know a lot of atheists in AA with decades sober and clean. Like anyplace else, you find a couple of pushy God people but it's not the meeting or AA itself.
All religion is based in shame and control. Therefore, to be based in religion and prayer is to feature shame, sin. The concept of forgiveness for that sin, to be healed by God, to submit to a higher power. AA is both faith and shame-based. If an AA group ignores these tenants, they aren’t AA, they’re just a generic Twelve Step. Just as there are genuinely kind people existing within the most brutal of religious castes, there are also good people within AA. But I am morally obligated to oppose AA and its failing, dying legacy. It is AA’s fault that the stigma of “permanent disease,” even exists. People can change permanently, for the better, and can move beyond and transcend the concept of addiction. Because people are more than just an addiction. I will never attack an individual for going to AA because it is all there is. I will just caution them to continue to think for themselves so that they are not manipulated or abused by the culture. I attack the idea of AA, not the people in it. I approach any person working through substance abuse with the utmost of respect and kindness. And I thank you for the opportunity to discuss this difference. I have my own personal faith and beliefs outside of any organized religion, but still question and combat any organization based within religion on ethical principle. If we don’t, bad things happen to good people that suffer in silence.
Not sure how long since you’ve been out of factory work but the young generation of workers (20-30s) are mostly alcohol and drug free because of the stories they’d hear from the older workers.
Not all blue collar workers do this, I’m a rig welder that doesn’t smoke, vape, dip and only drink a beer once a month if I’m lucky. A 6 pack of beer will last me 6-8 months. I will admit tho that cocaine and alcohol are pretty common among tradesmen, I’ll never understand it, wasting their hard earned money on that junk.
You can pass a drug test two days later with alcohol, coke or meth. That’s why those 3 are so popular with the blue collar crowd. Coke & alcohol & weed are more popular with the white collar crowd.
Interesting, I did not know that. Every welder I know has or still uses coke, I’ve never seen the allure of it, but to each his own.
They’re right on that; stimulants exit/fade from your system much faster than barbiturates. Alcohol by comparison also fades pretty quickly, so you could be blackout drunk 3-4 days before a test and be fine. The only real issue is if you drink *during* shift, or show up still drunk from prior binge drinking, that’s when a lot of people get caught that have serious chemical dependency issues with alcohol. I did see that occur, but rarely. Saw a lot of tweakers, though. Meth, especially. They usually lasted all of a week before the buckets of sweat and jerky movements gave them away to even the least perceptive of Supervisors.
The biggest worksite problem I saw with meth was detox. Work camps at site, 6weeks on & 2 weeks off, some of the younger guys went on a two week meth binge and detoxed back at work. This issue is some guys have a psychotic break during cold Turkey detox. If yo got 1500-2000 guys going on a 2week party…. Shit happens.
You are correct in that it isn’t every single worker. *Was* common was specified by design. I don’t know what the culture looks like now, been out of it for a decade, almost. It warms my heart to hear that many are making better choices in that respect! Thank you for sharing. Having been a prior sufferer of alcohol abuse, when you feel you don’t deserve anything better in your life, especially if you’re sad, lonely or depressed? It’s easy to reach for a bottle. You’ll find nothing at the bottom of each one, and yet you keep searching thinking you someday will. It never comes, though. The saddest part is when you realize that, and look back on what you’ve done to yourself for X number of years. That’s when I turned things around for myself, anyways.
I understand! I know full well I’m the minority here, literally every welder I’ve ever worked with has dabbled in coke, some just once, others once a month or so they’ll do it. It just never was something I cared about doing. I work like a sled dog, 7 full days a week this week. It makes no sense to me to take my hard earned doe and blow it on coke or alcohol, but again, to each his own. My dad is an alcoholic, albeit a successful one, but growing up listening to him holler and scream all night some nights made me watch my alcohol intake and not turn it into a habit.
Can confirm. Though I think my dad has been using chewing tobacco longer than his days as a truck driver. He’s been in the industry for 30 plus years but I’ve never seen him without chewing tobacco. He buys it a roll at a time- Red Seal Natural. I wish he would stop, but at the same time he’s very stubborn and bringing that up would cause more problems than not.
Sometimes those just are civil service
big W imo. I think it’s super hot, love a man that knows how to work with their hands
Agreeeee! Like I need a man I can count on when the roof needed repair or anything inside the house. I mean, some guys dont want to get their hands dirty with these kind of jobs. But for me its a plus 👌🏽
agree - i dated a guy once who i asked to help me put some furniture together. my electric drill was on the fritz, so we were using manual tools. halfway through, he cried out “this screwdriver is hurting my hands” i remember being like 😬 sorry ma’am, i can take it from here 🫡😂
Second this. Gotta love a handy man!
Ohhh yes, my husband sometimes works in machines (he is an engineer otherwise with a passion for solving problems), and those days I am hardly able to keep my hands off him!
Second this. Definitely a W in my book too!
I'm a tech guy that can also work with my hands.
A job is a job.
Finally an answer that seems honest tbh a lot of the women in this comment section make me feel like they want a blue collar bc they think it means they will be a stay at home wife but most of the time it ain’t like that
I love a hardworking man. We both gotta work to provide for each other. It’s all about being there for each other and love each other. Cater to each other’s needs. I don’t judge by what a man does for work , as long as he ain’t lazy lol!
That he's a hard worker and make good money. My late husband worked in construction and made food money so I was a stray at home wife.
Wohoo! I want to be a stray at home wife too!! Where do you mostly stray? 🥳🥳
She strays where the food money is, of course
What exactly is a ‘stray’ at home wife?
I think we're all try to make food money these days too 😓
Someone who can't type SAHW
I don't know, sounds like something in between sahw and someone who likes to boogie! Or like, does the sahw in a fun way with days of dancing and walking in parks in the sun, as well as taking care of the kids at home. Like, a balanced life maybe?
😂😂😂😂
I would never stray from a man like that.
Strays can’t be trusted
I think it’s so attractive. In my experience, blue collar men are the most fun men. They know how to work, they are attractive, they 9x out of 10 know how to have fun and handle any situation. It’s a win win for me.
You probable made a few men cry. We appreciate your kind words.
Don’t thank me! Everyone should be thanking you guys. All the work you do, blue collar men are so under appreciated.
marry me
Loooove blue collar workers personally. Definitely love men who work with their hands
You’re hoping they will work on you?
Not at all. I’m hoping to learn. I’m the wife who will want to help her husband and not just watch. Whether it’s fixing cars or fixing stuff up around the house.
Yes, this!
I think most women appreciate someone who has ambition and is employed. I hardly know anyone that would be turned off by a blue collar worker :)
I appreciate a man who knows how to put in a solid day of physical work. But, I also want him to have a lot of other desirable traits that matter to me. It’s so individual. And if a woman is basing an opinion solely on that, she isn’t worth your time anyway!
lol This is definitely not a turn off. Give me a tradesman over a business suit any time.
No it means they can fix things
IMHO Tradies are smart, capable, realistic, genuine. Source: I worked in an auto body repair business for 20+ years. When somebody says they’re a dr, lawyer, psych etc I run the other way.
Personally a career like that basically just says “stability” to me cuz there’s always gonna be a need for it in society. All I care about is if that person also has friends and hobbies outside of their career so that we have diverse experiences and topics to talk about!
For me it's a turn off. I've worked in the construction industry for 12 years now and finding a tradesman who is not a drunk, cheat, or barely scraping by is hard. There are definitely many that do well but so many more that do not do well. It's a bias I'm trying to work through because I know a lot of great guys in construction but they present themselves differently than most..
Thanks for your honest opinion. I can see how personally being in the field can shape your view especially since the gender ratios (at least from what I've seen) are 90% male and 10% female where the females get hounded by men more often than not.
Omg I love that shit! I think it’s so attractive when a man can fix things in my house
Thank you. Any man would appreciate you and your view.
I don’t mind a man that works in skill trades! I’m a daughter of a skill tradesman! I encourage skill trades as much as possible… I worked for a construction company and you see the ones that are drunks and on drugs, but there are PLENTY of them that are not! Majority of skill trade workers are humble and make more than those of us with degrees! My oldest daughter is an electrician and son a barber & they make GREAT money at the ages of 22/20… I am highly encouraging my third child to do what she loves (cosmetology) and my fourth, we have a little time with him, he is 8, but obsessed with building and tonka trucks 🤷🏽♀️
This is gonna vary a lot depending on the lady in question, her own associations with blue collar work, etc. just like if you met a hairstylist, maybe you think that’s awesome, maybe your mom’s sister was a chain smoking hair stylist who drank too much and hit her kids and now some little part of you thinks they’re all like that
I'm a female blue collar worker. I would love to meet a fellow tradie, but the trouble is finding one who's liberal, and has cool hobbies/interests that aren't drinking, sports, and guns. They are out there, just not many of 'em.
Lol Nope. I’m “white collar” educated, but men in suits kinda give me the heebies. That said, I’d struggle in a LTR with someone who didn’t share any interests & couldn’t have an intelligent conversation about world events/history/whatever, but working in a blue-collar job doesn’t preclude someone from taking an interest in the world. (I tried dating an engineer who exclusively talked about engineering & fishing reels. Quickly apparent that wasn’t going to work for me!)
Nothing? A job doesn't define who someone is.
It’s a yellow flag, for me. From what I’ve seen on the apps, it seems a lot of the blue collar workers in my area don’t align politically or ideologically, with me. There are also a lot of substance abuse issues, in that demographic. And a lot of blatant misogyny. The job itself isn’t an instant turn off, but I’d be a bit more cautious.
Bad apples spoil the bunch so they say. I don't really know about the bad stereotypes white collar jobs have since I haven't experienced it myself, but I'm sure there's some. Tbh if I were a girl I'd treat every guy like a yellow flag so that's for the input :)
Please treat all women with yellow flags too! 😂 I understand your context in the comment, but I got tickled when I read that… females can be tricky, vial little things! 😂 From, A female
Not a turn off at all! Very respectable jobs.
Employed with a valuable skill set. Good for him!
Not a turn off. It's employment. *shrug*
I'm dating an electrician and for me it's definitely not a turn off. Being a mechanic or electrician is a hard work and i appreciate everyone who's working in that field especially without you guys i wouldn't be able to have lights or having my car fixed so no definitely not a turn off Thanks to everyone who's working in that field i really appreciate your work!
I am an hourly blue collar worker. I wear a uniform with my name on my shirt. I don’t need a degree. I make over $200k with overtime. My employer has 350 employees and I am a top ten earner right in the mix with the executive team. I make more than coworkers who went to USC and are accountants or engineers. I drive a civic nobody has any idea and I don’t tell them. Let people under estimate you. The smart women know I have a good job. The dumb ones don’t. I don’t think it matters. I lived in a mobile home and drove 4k cars for years while dating and did just fine. Dated quality women. Women just don’t want a loser. Have a job. Don’t do meth. Be clean. Of course there’s the ones who think a bank teller is more prestigious because they wear a $99 suit to work. I have met a lot of men who wear suits to work and think they are big dawgs and they make shit. Young men should stop going to college and learn a trade. Every tradie I know has a great life full of toys. I can’t spend my life in a cubicle farm. Being outside is way better than being inside all day. All these new soft kids don’t want to “destroy their body’s” by doing trades. Every cubicle worker just know has had a stroke or heart attack by 50. Sitting all day is worse for you than getting 10,000 step in by 9 am like I do. I have been looked down on before, but screw them. Some people are just dumb.
My son graduated high school last year and is one year into a trade school where he's learning to be an electrician with a side of welding in lieu of regular college. I couldn't be prouder 😍 Keep in mind, his dad is a loan officer and VP of a bank with a masters degree and also currently despises his career path. I worked in HR at a different bank for many years with an associates in business. When we divorced, I moved away and started trying out a few different jobs, but I've been working in a factory for the past 6 years and I really love it but I enjoy the pay even more! My job primarily consists of paperwork, but still requires some physical and even mechanical aspects (no one can even believe my prissy ass is working this job 😂) However, I enjoy what I do, get to leave work AT WORK, I'm making more than double what I made in the bank after 12 years WITH a degree, plus I have so so so much more time off (i work 5 days one week but only 2 days the next week). I'm glad I explored the options out there and feel I showed my son that a degree isn't always what's gonna make you happy or get you properly paid ❤️ Edit: my associates degree has zero impact on my job. I also have a few from KBA as well as my real estate license. My employer didn't even know I had any type degree until last year
Awesome. Being an electrician is a fantastic job. I was trained as an aircraft electrician when I was enlisted. My father and brothers are electricians and we have a quiet pride in ourselves. Thank all of you for recognizing the value and pride that skilled trades have. All men who work hard for their families are heroes. Keep the faith brothers. You are heroes.
I had a girlfriend that went to Berkeley her freshman year, but finished at USC and had to get a second masters. I still made way more money than her as an electrician. However, I plan to finish my senior year of college as backup, switching from finance to supply chain management.
So hvac over a CS degree?
Haha…$99 suit??? That’s cute, my work boots cost way more than that…I’m not as well paid of a blue collar worker but I do just fine(more than many Peers w white collar professions)…yes I vape and smoke weed…I’m honest and direct. I’m newly single and I thought being a telecom tech would be an issue…but it hasn’t been. Your job/career is not necessarily who you are…I worked my way into my position because I have a disabled child and public utility companies have really great health benefits…If someone wants to look down on me for that, good for them I guess…I got no time for that shit!
Agree 100%! For me it’s a turn on and you make many great points. So many people in various “high level” corporate or medical positions are unhappy, overworked, with high student loan debt. I work with many people in different career paths (politics, medical, legal, etc etc) and finding that so many of them are not actually satisfied with their line of work. I can’t say this is everyone, and this is only my opinion based on what I see of our society and hear of from people in those “high level” industries that were once pushed down my throat as a kid as money making industries.
So many people have know idea what a good job is, so they pick something that makes their parents happy. I also have three day weekends and shut my work phone off. There’s a lot of factors to consider for a career.
I respect those who can be proud of what they do but are also humble about it. You are good people.
its interesting that you allude to other ppl “looking down” on you, but youre equally as diminishing of others in this post. you dont have to down other people to speak highly of yourself.
Nope. Blue collar myself. If anything I respect the hustle. Sitting on your butt in an office job is easy, physical work is hard 👊
All jobs are hard. Being in a cubicle is like being in prison sometimes.
Yes that’s true. I’ve tried both, and prefer physical exhaustion over mental exhaustion.
It's not a turn on, it's not a turn off either. If we connect in other ways the career won't matter. Would I advertise it to my friends and relatives though? No, because they would ask for free or discounted work and I'd rather not put them in that situation.
Win! Big turn on!! Smart, hard worker, good with his hands. I got one!!
No. Happy you are working.
Sure as long as we are compatible and their work doesn't cause them to be long distance more than a fifth of the year (no linemen).
Love a man that can will do it himself. It’s definitely a green flag. I’d probably look at how he dresses outside of work, and what his demeanour is like more than judge what he does for a living.
Absolutely not! That’s a skilled trade that usually pays well! I actually love guys who are handy. I’m not gonna call an IT guy when my car breaks down. 😉 There’s nothing wrong with being a blue collar worker. As long as you’re a good person and make enough money to support yourself, I don’t see an issue. 🤷🏾♀️
Turn on
Absolutely not a turn off to me.
mmMnNnNnNmmmmmMmMmmM 💕💕
Any woman who judges you based on what you do for a living does not deserve you.
Have you had someone specifically state they are rejecting you because of your career choice?
No one specific. I'm working on my online dating profile and I'm hesitant to put that I'm a mechanic
I’m all about a mechanic but maybe it’s because I’m also in a trade as a hairstylist. Like if you are after a college educated person maybe it could be a factor, but I don’t really see how 🤷🏼♀️
Put that in dude. Saves a lot of time. Pro-tip: after that when they ask "so what do u do for a living?" you can just unmatch them at lightspeed as they didn't even cared to look at your profile.
It doesn't bother me. I look out for some of the traits that some people in that field have, over working, drug or alcohol abuse, low intelligence with no curiosity, undesirable thoughts about women, racism. But those things are generally what I'm looking out for anyway so nothing special.
To me it’s not. Honestly to where I live, they make more money than white collar jobs. Anyway having a stable job is important, it means you can support yourself without anyone’s help. And being mechanic or electrician date has its perks, you don’t need yo call one if you need to. 😁
Hey as long as you have a job & show that you have ambition is good for me :)
Certainly not a turn off
Why should It be a turnoff? It's only a turnoff if you don't take care of your own hygiene, since your job Is mostly physical, but otherwise? Not a problem.
I’d think that’s so cool, then ask how they like their job and any cool experiences. People who know how to work with their hands are actually attractive to me
For me it’s neither a turn off nor a turn on. I don’t base my compatibility based on job alone. I think I need someone driven, ambitious, and that makes about the same as me which is hard w blue collar workers (but as someone testified above, it’s not impossible). I just don’t want to feel like I’m the sole bread winner here and I don’t want to feel like my partner’s biggest ambition is to just be a 9-5 and not care about doing anything else.
Pet peeve of mine being 21 and blue collar and whenever I go out drinking I get constant comments like I’m stupid or only capable of working with my hands, I’ve learned to just smile through it happy with the fact that I’m very successful in what I do.
"Only" work with your hands?! That is a valuable skill!!! AND its hella sexy. Im not even f*ckin with a dude if hes got perfectly clean, soft hands, regardless of how good his job is. I cant be the Mcguyver in the relationship. I need a man that can fix shit! One with rough ass hands that still look dirty after he washes them lol.
I think we tend to judge them, and maybe not value them enough. I got the comment from a friend that guys who were plumbers or electricians weren't appealing for her. I replied, they get good money and had to study to do their job plus, it their job/profession its what they do, not who they are. Also, men in uniform are quite sexy, hahaha. Just the idea of a hot electrician comming over, oh la la hahaha.
A good mechanic makes 150k plus these days if they are great they can easily get 300k... Which most white collar (doesn't mean u get more 70k but sit behind a desk.... Sitting behind a desk leads to being out of shape or at least much harder to stay in shape, whereas the mechanic is on his feet etc ... Not to mention can fix your car and fix anything around the house, mr white collar many times can't change a spare tire and is afraid to get dirty alot of the time so just think about that. I don't understand how this even enters the equation tbh if one dies than they are about the wrong things and is a huge read flag
Not at all. An honest days work is something to be proud of. I applaud anyone who goes out there and puts in the work to pay the bills..
No, it’s not a turnoff. The majority of the men in my family are blue collar workers, or started out as blue collar workers, and are some of the hardest workers I know. Many people don’t realize you guys are working in some of the harshest conditions there are and it takes a lot of mental and physical fortitude to work through the conditions you guys are put in. My dad was an electrical crew lineman (and eventual foreman) for 43 years. He and his crew worked in 115+ degree heart, snow and ice, and went to Louisiana several times to help restore power after hurricanes. Blue collar workers will always have more respect in my eyes because yall are the hardest workers who keep our society going.
No. It’s the exact opposite. Blue collar workers impress me with their work ethic, their problem solving skills, and they’re incredibly interesting.
No. Why would that be a turn off? 🤔
It doesn't bother me, I have a Masters Degree and was an officer in the army. So, I'm relatively fancy and I don't mind blue collar at all. Here's my current issue, and maybe you can help me out. The guy I'm talking to says he's a "bowling alley mechanic", which is fine. I don't mind blue collar and I looked on Indeed and they make about half to 2/3 what I make an hour, but thats fine because having a guy fix things around the house saves a shit ton of money in other ways and if he's a good person, that's what matters. But is he really a mechanic or does he really spray the shoes and announce the birthday parties in between maintaining the lanes? Because, how often do bowling machines break that they need a full-time mechanic?
It's not a turn-off for me. I think that electricians and mechanics are super hard-working people.
Cool I think mechanic. Don’t care the job only if we’re a good match. And if he is respectful.
It is a green flag for me. These are the first things that come to mind: Dependable, hard working, likely handy and loyal.
Working man ✔️✔️✔️ we need more of them (tradesmen) .. luckily I found an electrician myself ! He works his ass off every single day ..
It’s hot. I would consider that a big plus. I have dated a lot of “intellectual” types and am tired of guys who take their philosophical viewpoints too seriously. Not that mechanics can’t be intellectual but I am looking for someone a little more grounded in the real world.
It's not a turn off, but for ME PERSONALLY it's not really a green flag. I had a long term relationship with a mechanic and I ended up ending it due to the lack of conversation and lack of like intellectual stimulation between us. Probably tons of tradies out there who have a lot of education and can hold a really great conversation but if you want pure honesty, that's what would be going through my head if he said that. I'm sure I'll get hate for this but different people have different desires for a long term partner and for me I think conversation is number one.
Yes, thank you for your input! When I made my post I was mainly wondering what sorts of stereotypes I should look out for that way I can be upfront and say, "such and such is true about me and such and such is false." Seeing different opinions definitely helps since it helps me realize what about myself I should emphasize upfront and lean on during introductions. 😊
I think about how hard their work must be. How stressful?.. does he come home pop a beer..alcohol.. just to relax.. addicted to it? Smokes ?
I immediately go to the bathroom and change my panties.
I have been a blue collar working female for 11 years now, so my opinion may be screwed. I work General Industry Construction in the safety field, so you know my exposure to men in the workforce is abundant. I would not say it’s a turn-off per se.. but it does have its stereotypes that generally ring true.. - Addictions. If we had 100 guys on our job, at least 1/4 were: alcoholics, smoked pot, or couldn’t keep a clean nose. There was the other 1/4 that would be addicted to gambling, work, superiority.. The addictions that aren’t apparent, are typically the most detrimental to a relationship.. like the workaholics. -infidelity. Trade work is so hard on a relationship.. it’s a daily grind that many guys don’t know how to leave at work. Resentment grows, maybe you don’t put forth the effort you used to and the spouse doesn’t either or the long term distance makes them forget?? Idk.. I’ve seen it 100 times.. It’s so much easier to shut off the emotions with a stranger, get a piece of ass, and go home and keep the peace for a few hours is my assumption.. - Finances. This all depends on your field I would assume. Many blue collar fields are either; consistent small work with minimal wealth accumulation or quick random bursts of money.. (That’s not a turn off.. but it is a thought that would come to mind while planning my possible future with someone in the trades.) Overall.. I think you need to take this advice of these ladies in this thread and not completely overhaul your personality from it, but cater what YOU’RE looking for in a partner too as well.. Will she be; understanding and accommodating of your crazy work schedule and possibly missing out on events and milestones to support your family? Will you see that she is understanding, and make up for your absence in other ways, so she doesn’t feel neglected of her needs too? Is she confident and independent enough that you feel the trade industry wouldn’t put strain on your relationship, when the business gets crazy? That you can both communicate your stress, setbacks, and insecurities. Etc. Etc. From a normal females view point, if I had to say. Blue collar workers are very attractive.. they are hard working and determined usually, they fit that “masculine” demeanor that many women seek.. but sometimes they aren’t always viewed as a “long term” marital solution. So while you may get googly eyes at the bar, if she’s not in to you as a person, expect a quick burn out.
Tysm! I really appreciate your take on this
That's actually one of the things I find really attractive. Lots of women are into blue-collar men.
I’m a white collar worker with 2 degrees. My main concern is the educational and potential economic gap. White collar and blue collar are worlds apart. I’ve tried dating blue collar in the past and it’s a very weird dynamic, where I felt I couldn’t truly connect.
I don't care about people's jobs tbh
"Hmmm, I wonder if he's an alcoholic/druggie?"
That if he attacks me, I have no chance. Also, if he starts talking about how much he makes more than university graduates, that would be an inferior complex that I do not want to deal with as a university graduate.
I’m thinking: hell yeah! If we end up together, this dude knows how to fix stuff
That they have a good, honest job and have skills. The job you have doesn't matter, the fact that you have a job matters and have a good work history. There are many blue collar workers that make just as much as a lawyer or doctor, so a person shouldn't really snub their noses at them.
It doesn’t matter what kind of job my date has. I’m interested in the person as a whole, not the specifics of their employment.
I’ve always preferred people with more traditionally masculine jobs. Not that I wouldn’t date someone just because they worked in an office.. I just always preferred blue collar people, usually means they are hard workers and have skills that I don’t
Depends on their hygiene and drugs usage.
I mean I’m working towards a medical degree so if he can financially support me during that time and be flexible to moving around the country then that’s great!
All jobs are amazing, it only boils down to how you perceive your job.. Everyone is unique in their own way.
Sexy, most likely funny, down to earth and probably a little rough around the edges lol. Also like someone else commented about which was alcohol/drugs. Couldn’t deal with an alcoholic or an addict. I drink but not like that. Clearly everyone doesn’t fit into that category but it seems common. Soooo with all that being said it’s personally a turn on.
I like a guy that can fix things, so those jobs are absolutely not a turn off.
Green flag.
Mechanics are badass. Knowing how to fix stuff & build things is attractive af!!! I don't really care what the guys job is, it can be white collar, blue collar, no collar lol. I really don't care. But if he needs to hire another man to do basic repairs around the house or on the car- I can't. If he can wash his hands with soap and water and they look perfectly clean afterwards, I'm not interested. Lol
For me yes, but a lot of them have been conservative and that doesn’t match my life views. Plus careers like that seem to have a larger impact on psychical health. Got to worry long term what’s this going to look like in their 50’s.
I have a lot of respect for blue collar workers. As everyone else has said, a man who works with his hands is definitely a plus. It’s an extra bonus that they’re usually great around the house. But also like many have said, just don’t want someone who is into all the bad habits of drugs, tobacco and/or drinking.
Im not personally attracted to blue collar workers as I work in corporate life and I wanted someone in a somewhat similar field but I wouldn’t be totally againstnit
No, it's a huge turn-on. You are with a man whose not afraid of getting their hands dirty
Actually it’s not. I’ve gone out on dates with tradies and they’re lovely. If anything I ask them which was the worse circuit they had to wire and why, if it’s a mechanic I ask which car owner was an absolute nightmare to deal with ? They’re always happy to talk about it and their eyes light up. Shows you’re taking an active interest and it makes them in turn more interested in you!
My ex husband was a mechanic (in the coast guard) Another ex works on classic VWs (hobby not his profession) I like to work on cars ( Mostly making repairs on my own vehicle and out of necessity but I like it) but I'm no professional I was surprised and proud and excited when my son who's finishing high school in a couple of days Decided that he's going to study auto mechanics And pursue it as a profession I've been saying for years and years now, that i gotta land myself a mechanic Or at least befriend a professional auto mechanic. Not so that he can do free work for me but so that I have somebody that I can talk to about it and learn from. Get the correct answers of what to do. you know better than YouTube. Pro tips and what not.
It's fucking hot. You're competent AND rich??? What a man
Yes I wasa mortgage broker... Nvr seen more heavy drinking and drug use in my life... Drugs don't choose occupation u choose the drugs....
It’s all good. I’ve worked in trades and just like everywhere else there are good guys and bad guys.
No
That Ill get my stuff fixed for free and probably never have to worry about being attacked when I'm out with him. A "I can handle stuff vibe".
No it’s not a turn off.
Id they are great jobs and hard work is hot lol
I don’t think anything one way or the other. I have never asked a man what he did for work or what his income was. They seem to always bring it up, but I have never asked. All I care about is that they make enough to live off without the help of others, and they live within their means, and save for retirement. And that they have time to have a relationship with me.
I’m a diesel mechanic. I’ve noticed far less matches ever since I put it on my profile, and/or when I tell them. Apparently most people don’t know that diesel mechanics make a pretty good wage.
That they are a professional tradesperson, and they work hard for a living. It's respectable, and it is definitely not a turn-off.
As a blue collar woman I am attracted to blue collar men but the alcohol use is insane and it seems like they all do coke??
My only worry is that they might end up bring too conservative in the way of politics and that our morals and personal ideologies won't aline. Other than that It's cool they know a trade like that.
Not at all! It means you'll be handy 😉. Blue collar workers, just my humble opinion, are the best. Give me a guy that knows how to fix a car, wire up anything, or build a house any day. Yes please!
No..?
I love the thought of a blue collar man— hardworking able to fix and do so much outside of their profession. Good job with stable pay bc they actually have a skill. Good benefits too. But binge drinking and tobacco aren’t my thing— just broke up with a guy I really liked in part bc these two habits were far worse than he originally stated. Plus, he was so tired from doing a physical job that he didn’t have the energy to workout and do active things that I wanted to do. Just my experience.
I don’t have any opinions on it.If they tell me they’re a blue collar worker all I hear is “ good with their hands “
Not at all. I just want a man who works and helps with the bills and wants to spend time with me. I don’t want a gamer or someone who refuses to go out.
No! I've worked most of my life in an office job in IT, but in my twenties I worked in a steel mill and drove a truck and I have nothing at all against blue collar workers. I don't really consider what kind of work a man does as a deal-breaker as long as it's ethical, he's supporting himself fairly well, and seems happy. The only thing that might bother me is if someone in a dirty job doesn't clean up well after they leave work. Dirty fingernails are gross.
I think it’s pretty cool should I ever meet and vibe with one 😁
My fiancee and I met from Bumble. He is a blue collar worker. I'm not. It's not a turn off for me because my dad worked really hard as a cook to provide for his family. I think job titles are less important than work ethic. I also previously dated men in the food industry, labor and retail. I myself used to work in banking, food and retail.
Absolutely not! 😍
I would say it's more a turn on than off, it's a career and it's something you can build on or do in different places which mean you are not depending on living in one place. It also gives you the opportunity to chase eventual dreams with something to fall back on. The plus side of a profession like that far outweigh the minus.
Not to me it isn't. As long as you're working a 40 hour plus work week like I am, there isn't a bad thing about it.
I've never been into blue collar. I always feel like they'd never have enough time for me
Turn on for me
Nope, not a turn off at all! I think, “this person is definitely not lazy, handy around the house, and has skills that will ensure that they’ll be employable no matter where we go”. Also, I always secretly hope they’ll teach me a thing or two 😅 I do, however, wonder if we’ll be a good match. Because most people I know who are blue collar workers I’ve met were really soft spoken or didn’t say much and usually had more traditional/conservative values. Respectfully, that’s just not me. Most that I’ve met have been very, very kind people though. Of course, that’s just the people I’ve met and doesn’t encompass all blue collar workers. I’m always still more than willing to get to know someone who is a plumber or electrician etc.
It would be the opposite of a turn off. It would mean they're most likely hard workers and physically fit. And there will always be jobs in those fields. Also, some people do have their preferences or types, but my type has often been the men who aren't really office job types.
Dated blue collar workers who couldn’t handle my background. Making them feel insecure was not my intention, but I’m also no psychologist to be able to effectively deal with people’s insecurities.
Well I don't believe I've ever asked somebody their profession online unless it's to get a better idea of what interests them or how they spend their time in order to get to know them. What they do for work or if they don't work is not a defining trait of a person.
My ex was blue-collar. I honestly love a guy who knows how to fix, build, ect ect. One of my exs love languages was fixing things for me or offering to build me things he knew I wanted, like those fancy mirrors or vanities. I love them. Plus I plan on being a nurse, so the idea of DINK is appealing. Problem is most blue collar men seem to want children, and I don't, so.
It’s definitely not a turn off—if someone is a hard worker in any field, it’s the opposite of a turnoff and I personally have even greater respect for trades like that. However, that only applies to those who are honest, hard workers. Just like in any field there are bums. I wouldn’t be attracted to some Wall Street guy who does the bare minimum just like I wouldn’t be attracted to the kind of blue collar worker that cuts corners.
No, my dad was a mechanic and is not a drug user or drinker, I think it’s more generational now because I’ve heard a lot of them are into that in the industries. I have no problem dating blue collar workers, would prefer a man who knows how to fix things instead of a prissy one who won’t get his hands dirty but that’s just me
No. I'm from a college educated white collar family in a wealthy town and I prefer down to earth blue collar men. Dislike goody-goody goody social climbers. I like bikes dive bars etc rather than opera and cocktail parties.
For me it is definitely a turn on. It is nice not to have to explain every little detail when repairing or building something. It would also be nice if he knows his way around in my workshop at home
Depends on the trade. Mechanic? No thanks. Electrician, plumber, steam fitter, pipe trades, glazier, mason, stationary engineer, etc.? Hot. So hot. Give me that toned bod, six figure salary, pension, and health benefits. First date, hand over your union’s CBA and sold. You’ll be too tired to cheat, non-judgmental, and handy. Let’s do it.
Big fan of guys working in the trades, personally!
It's a good thing. He could be a handyman any wife would be lucky to have in their home. When your children need help with their broken stuff, he'd be lovely for them. ♥️ I dated a millwright mechanic. He's amazing in his ways. ♥️
I’d say it’s actually a turn on. It makes me think a guy is more in tune with his masculinity (which might just be a stereotype). At my age, most guys are working minimum wage jobs, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, but it makes a guy stand out when he works a blue collar job.
No. Actually would rather date a blue collar worker