Today, I got to thinking about titles.
In my current role I’ve been switched (by others) from ‘strategist’ (my label) to ‘Strategy Director’ (others’ label – and, I note, with the “title” case). When I’ve been positioned as the ‘director’ I’ve had a more positive experience with a difficult client. Like they are happier they’re dealing with someone who is at a ‘director’ level even though I’m doing the same work I had previously been doing under the guide of being a simple ‘strategist.
Do titles make a difference? Really?
I think they probably do. For me, I just think about the work I’m doing – strategy. My lined and tired face should alone let someone know that I have experience. Maybe it’s just me and that there is an expectation when someone introduces themselves as a senior level person.
Or perhaps I’ve just read more into a situation than is actually there. The client is still difficult, so aside from how they speak to me and act on my work being different they’re still harder work than they should be.
The good thing that comes from pushing myself up the hierarchy is I can say what needs to be said and it’s generally accepted.