Does it matter what they call you?

 



This question proved hard to answer and I found myself unable to articulate an opinion. So, I set out to get a better understanding of the mindset around the question at hand. I found some interesting blog posts and had several conversations on the topic.

Some organizations do not take giving a title lightly, while other companies give them freely. In the case of a sales organization, it is beneficial to have an elevated title. The customer feels they are working with someone of importance at the company and it is easier for the sales person to get the customers attention. That's why often times you will see Area Vice President, but really the person is more of a Director level. Sometimes Directors are more Managers, while Managers are more Specialists. In large companies, you see a Specialist doing Manager work, Manager doing Director work, and Director doing VP level work. So, that leads me to believe.... maybe, it doesn't matter (shrug).

In contrast, some argue that title is for the employee. The title allows them to feel important to the organization, gives them a sense of empowerment and respect from others around them. I don't disagree with this argument either! Naturally, this led me to ask my friends what they think about the subject. I have shared some of their quotes below (some anonymous).

Friend and old colleague who currently works for a global marketing company says: "Cash is King! If they are paying you what you are worth.... does it matter what they call you?"

Maameamba Arthur-Price from Komatsu America: "Title means respect and power to get things done. It gives you a seat at the table depending on the company size. I definitely consider the title important."

Jason R. from Big Wheel says: "Titles matter when you don't have them, but don't matter when you do."

Industry friend who currently works in the food industry says: "What is the quality of the work you are doing?  .... Who cares what your title is!"

Industry friend who owns a boutique executive search firm says: “I understand why people are sometimes concerned about titles.  But, they really don’t matter to me.  In today’s world, titles vary so greatly from company to company that I really don’t pay attention to them.  I focus much more on role, responsibility, results delivered and someone’s current as well as past compensation."

Industry friend who works for a fortune 500 distribution company says, “It's easier to go from Director to Director or Manager to Manager. It's harder to make a case for Director if your title is not already Director."

ChristopherDemers says: “I personally don’t think they’re helpful. Where it does make a difference is in these areas: sales, negotiations and HRIS.” I had not heard any thoughts prior on negotiations or HRIS, but his point makes sense. He said, “In negotiations, (b2b or with union) you have to have the right title to get the right response. In HRIS, a title super-structure helps keep job creation and with it, attendant salary inflation controls. So, I don’t have much use for them, but they serve a valid purpose.”

Although there are so many differing opinions on the matter, the process helped me find an articulate answer of my own. It depends on your individual motivations and what you personally value. There isn't a simple yes or no answer to this question. It's all perspective. 

What are your thoughts on title? Do you consider it important or just simply a title? I would love to hear your thoughts on this one!