Some people believe that a person’s job title defines not only what they do, but who they are and how they fit into society. Other people however, believe the complete opposite. So I wanted to know, does your job title really matter and does it affect your current role and any future job opportunities.

Job Titles Do Matter

We know that we live in a world where titles lay a sort of status quo within our society. Titles create boundaries, as well as structure and guidance in every day interactions and etiquette. As a society, job titles are a necessary function of everyday life, for instance, how would we know how to behave in front of the Queen, or how we should act in the presence of a Police Officer.

Within the business industry as well, job titles are necessary as they not only create hierarchy but have attached certain responsibilities. For example, we know that we should treat our Managers with respect, or know that we should give anything accounts related to the Accounts Officer. Job titles not only give you guidance on who you should report to, but can also hinder, or help you in your future roles.

Job titles are often used as a measure for employers in their recruitment process. Your previous job title allows them to consider how you would fit into their organisation, what you would do in your role, your responsibilities and level of expertise.

Job titles aren’t just about our egos; they help determine how you fit in a company and can determine the next stepping stone in your career. They are also a good talking point in conversation!

Job Titles Don’t Matter

With job titles come certain connotations – for instance, the moment you hear that someone is a dentist, doctor, lawyer; you immediately associate these titles with various stereotypes and reactions. Whether your reaction is associated with thoughts of money, or a sense of arrogance or intimidation, people always tend to judge people on what they do for work. However, just because someone has a fancy job title, doesn’t mean they have super human powers. They are only human and have the same humanly needs/desires as everyone else does. Society has put specific job titles on a “pedestal” but job titles do not necessarily define a person! A specific title does not put a limit or flooring on what someone is capable of.

Job titles have very different meanings to different person and in different businesses. For instance, whilst you might be in a supervisor in one business, you may be qualified to be a manager in another. Your job title should reflect your level of experience, responsibilities and the results you produce for your company. We all know of a time when a manager (who is typically higher ranked and most likely paid more) does the same or less amount of work as you, despite the lack of job title and salary.

At the end of the day, job titles are meaningless, whereas results speak volumes. So when someone asks you the age old question “What do you do?” answer with your responsibilities and with content, not just with your job title.

I have found some people care more about titles than others. What do you think?

Written by Natassja Ford