Position Titles and False Perceptions

Not everyone is engaged and fulfilled in their jobs. Even when you have a position title that would have the majority believing otherwise. And is this perceived status what’s actually holding you back?

After a discussion on job satisfaction, I invited Fiona who is an Executive Assistant within a high profile national business to do a guest post on what may actually be a contributing factor in some workplaces. Read on – thanks Fiona for your contribution.


Having a specific position title can create a perception of a successful and engaging career.

There are a myriad of title variations that organisations can deem appropriate to perform certain roles. Some titles give a perception of exceptional skills and commitment only a few are capable of. Yet that isn’t always the case.

My position title “Executive Assistant”  relates to assisting senior management with their administrative requirements. It sounds as though it’s a role that is highly stimulating, constantly busy and a role many others in the admin world would be envious of – if nothing else but for the title. Yes, I am highly skilled in my line of work and do have many years of experience in working with senior executives. I feel I am very good at what I do.

However, my workload is directly related to what the executive requirements are at any point in time. It isn’t always what you might perceive. There are times when there is a shortage of tasks or projects that keep me engaged and productive in my work day.

I suggest there are also many other people who aren’t always fully engaged in their roles no matter what level they’re at.

Interestingly, taken from a recent podcast, an executive trainer established that even at the highest senior levels, executives feel vulnerable and are fearful of being caught out as a fraud, that they don’t always feel totally comfortable about how they came to be in their role and what they actually bring to the organisation. Some felt they were hiding behind their position title. So it would seem everyone is insecure to some point.

Giving the perception that you are busy while scrolling aimlessly on the internet might sound idyllic to some, guaranteed it will start to wane quickly. It’s not a viable long-term strategy. If you are constantly in this situation then it is going to have an impact. Our brain requires stimulation. We’re not vegetables. If you don’t use it, you lose it – as they say.

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Up skilling to expand your abilities is one key way to take the initiative and show purpose which may lead to greater engagement in your role. Even if the topic you study doesn’t pay benefits in the form of a promotion or similar, it will expand your mind and give you purpose.  I believe everything happens for a reason, sometimes you have to take the first leap before an opportunity presents itself.  Having confidence is a powerful tool – but that’s for another post.

Realistically, no matter what your position title says, we can’t all be busy all the time, but you don’t want to just be in a role that isn’t giving you any feelings of accomplishment, satisfaction or value over a long period of time, even if your position title gives a perception of status.

If all else fails, have a think about what you really enjoy and look into what skills you might need to seek a change for the better.  Don’t just trade your precious time for a payslip – life is far too short for that. It’s much more fun if you’re a Human Doing rather than just a Human Being. Regardless of your title.

Thanks for reading.


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