I remember seeing Fabio on a talk show once. Might have been Ellen, and Ellen asked, "Just what is your job title?"
"Fabio", he answered.
"No really", Ellen continued, "when you do your taxes, what do you write in the box for 'occupation'?"
"Fabio".
Do you like your job title? Do you think it adequately describes what you do?
I belong to a few tutoring discussion groups, and this came up recently in one of them. Someone thought that "tutor" had a stigma attached to it. He felt something more like "Personalized Learning Consultant" or "In Person Instructor (IPI)" would be more appropriate.
At first, I thought surely he was joking.
But then, no. I think he was actually serious. I was glad to see most of the replies indicate that they were fine with the title of "tutor". Some starting out with phrasing like, "I don't know what it's like where you live, but..." or "What's in a name?" One guy, who is a bit of a group clown, replied, "Wizard".
To me, having some high-falutin' adjective-adjective-noun job title gives the impression that the title holder is trying to overcompensate for something.
I used to be an "Instructional Paraprofessional", but I sure felt more like a "teacher's aid". Either way, it was the worst and most boring job I ever had. Sounded good, though, no?
And for the record, I'm quite satisfied with "Crossing Guard", although if I were in the UK, I would get to be a "Lollypop Lady", and that would be awesome!
Looking for a fresh title? Go [here].
Then there's [this article] that makes me wonder, "really??"
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20 comments:
Fabio...hmmm...how about 'Romance Novel Cover Art Model' or 'Michael Bolton Look-a-like'.
I've always thought 'sanitation engineer' had a good ring to it instead of 'janitor', but that's about it.
My title? Mom, volunteer, 'chief cook and bottle washer'
I've always thought that DJ sounds cool but Disc Jokey sounds so naff and 70's! :D
I mean Jockey! :D
I kinda like my new title. :) But I want the responsibilities to go with it - not just the title! Funny that people would rather have the title than more pay!
I'm with you. I would be just fine with being a crossing guard or tutor or teacher's aide. But I can see how "sanitation engineer" would bring more respect to a janitor or garbage collector.
One thing I know for sure - I'm happy I'm not Fabio.
Ok, SR, spill the beans. We know you got the promotion, butg what's the new title?
Funny how much people put into titles. I was never much on the titles. A long, long time ago, one of my old bosses (CAB) told me that titles are only as important as you make them. I have know several presidents and senior directors who couldn't lead a pack of Brownies. I've seen directors with two people and directors with 150 people, so the job title doesn't have as much impact to me.
That said, I have enough street cred behind my name to add a few descriptors, if the need arises. To most, I am a purchasing manager (I buy stuff). On occasion, when I like to show my tail feathers, I can be: Senior Procurement Manager, BSME, MBA PSCM, Cpt Ret, Lead Auditor, Six Sigma. Sounds impressive but I still put my pants on one leg at a time.
I still like Xtreme Crossing Guard...
I agree that some titles are outdated, like "janitor". Around here, I prefer "Wash Woman".
It's funny how initials can sound so much cooler than the full name!
I was surprised by the better title in lieu of pay too. It's probably something that stems from their childhoods...
I'd rather be known for good work than an impressive title. And you must either have huge business cards or use a small font!
I knew of a guy who had "6 Sigma" personalized license plates. If I was ever in such a postition, I doubt I would hire him. I just think that's weird.
In the military, sometimes the more grandiose the rank name, the lower the actual rank. For instance, a 1-star general is a "Brigadier General" (ooh!); a 4-star is just "General". A Lieutenant Colonel is below an actual Colonel.
It kinda thought it akin to "Walk softly and carry a big stick", but maybe it's rooted in title envy.
What is a 'Six Sigma'? I'm not familiar with that one.
"Six Sigma" refers to a set of strategies for improving processes - often manufacturing processes - to improve quality and decrease defects. People can become "certified". If I remember, it's kind of like martial arts where you earn different levels and eventually become like a "Six Sigma Black Belt" Ooooooh! It's good to have on a resume', but I wouldn't get a license plate. Just sayin'.
"Brigadier Lieutenant Crossing Guard" - YAH!
Interesting post, links, and comments. I've always been more of an "action speaks louder than words" kinda girl.
I've had a lot of titles, but none of them truly entailed all the work I did. I wore many hats, but all at the same time.
Now, I'm just 'retired', but I'm surrounded by other retirees who act like their PRIOR titles still exist and do not realize "POMPOUS" is nothing to be proud of.
That would be great fun to be named Lollipop Lady. The UK does have some fun names for things, like boot for the trunk of the car.
Fabio would be pleased with the drawing.
If you are going military, they tend to really build up the title. Instead of Crossing Guard, how about: Logistical Safety Transportation Administrator for Pedestrian Mobility (LSTAPM)?
"To me, having some high-falutin' adjective-adjective-noun job title gives the impression that the title holder is trying to overcompensate for something. "
I completely agree with that!
I tried out the title generator. I'm now a Central Functionality Facilitator!
Honestly, I think a title should give some concept of what a person does in their role. I hate when a title only creates a big fat blank in my brain. I am officially a Marketing Associate, but the title I actually use is Account Manager, but the work I do includes Account Management, Data Analytics and Door Answering when necessary. So, I'm not sure what title would really be appropriate. Maybe Central Functionality Facilitator?
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