Feb

6

Thanks for the new title. How about some new pay to go with it?

Posted by Dan

February 6, 2009 |

There’s a bit of a strange thing going on at the publishing company where I work. Seems everyones wants a title that makes them sound more important than they are. Maybe that’s not so odd. We all want to be better than what we are, right? It’s why I’m a future novelist and not just a blogger and freelance writer.

But the strange thing where I work is that though people want new titles, they don’t expect any new money to come with them.

Earlier this week, I heard a salesman ask his manager if he could have a new title. He wanted to be a “senior account executive” rather than an “account executive.” My first thought when I heard this? “That’s stupid. A salesman is a salesman, no matter what he calls himself.” But then the salesman added this line: “I don’t want any more money, just the title.”

That made me pause. Really? He cares more about getting a title than he does extra income? Or is it that he knows he can’t get the money, so he’s seeking at least some small token, even if it’s ultimately worthless?

This is endemic at my company. Writers want to become “senior writers.” Secretaries want to be listed as “office managers.” But no one asks for more money. What a strange, strange place.

Personally, you can call me “chief jackass” if you’d like. But how about a raise?


Comments

Name (required)

Email (required)

Website

Speak your mind

<< Post Navigation >>

« « Jobless claims hit new high | Recruiting way down at business schools » »