Job Titles

atherese

We would like to create a policy that sets criteria/standards as to what position title/classification would fit rather than department heads randomly selecting a position title they like to classify a new job. Do you have criteria set for when a position would get the title director, coordinator, manager or supervisor? (Or know where I can find information regarding this.)

Gillian

Some organizations may do this as part of their compensation program but I think that you are dealing with a cultural issue. In some organizations, managers are so focused on the importance of titles that to take away from that creates more negative reactions than the benefits of consistency. Sometimes, as we do in our organization, it is beneficial to have two titles - one that the manager wants and one that we use in HR for compensation purposes. Not everyone has two titles of course and those that do don't know that for compensation purposes we don't care what their working job title is. One issue that has come up for us is the use of the title of Vice-President. We have a department which is called University Advancement. There job is fundraising and if an individuals business card doesn't say Vice President they will have a harder time getting in to see a donor. Other departments poo-poo what is perceived as "puffery", but you have to do what you have to do.

Look at your issue from a cultural perspective and see if it is worthwhile to change your practices.