When the title becomes more important than knowledge, we all bear the consequences. This text explores the phenomenon of 'title inflation,' where a false shine threatens an entire profession and the trust in it.
Do you remember a time when "inflated" titles were a reason for jokes or amazement? When a "Regional Executive Manager" in a company of three employees or a "Chief Strategy Officer" in a micro-company would provoke a smile and disbelief?
Today, it's no longer funny. It has become a reality, or even almost the norm.
There are many CVs and LinkedIn profiles where candidates add "regional" to their title, even though they've only worked in the domestic market, or attach a C-level abbreviation for jobs where they never realistically had the breadth of responsibility and strategic influence that such a title implies.
Perhaps because we believe a grand title opens doors. Perhaps because the market unconsciously encourages it. Or simply, because we can.
But one question remains: When did we stop worrying about whether we have truly grown into what's written on our CV?
Because the truth is, many who "inflate" their titles and job descriptions may eventually start to believe their own story. If we write and say something enough times, we begin to live in that bubble, forgetting that the truth could catch up with us very quickly.
Who bears the consequences? Do they understand the damage they can cause with wrong decisions, due to a lack of knowledge and experience?
This brings us to the bigger picture. If someone cannot see the risks and consequences of their ignorance or inexperience, teams, organizations, and projects can suffer, and ultimately, the reputation of the entire profession.
Unfortunately, in our country, there seems to be an obsession with the top of the pyramid. Everyone wants to become a director, boss, or leader as quickly as possible, even though they haven't even gone through the basic phase of skill and knowledge development.
In some other cultures outside our region, it's not a shame to remain a specialist or advisor and shape expertise in one area for 20 or even 30 years. On the contrary, expertise and dedication are valued. Here, if you're not at least a Head of Something after five years, it seems like you've failed.
Why? Where does this hunger for titles come from, with so little attention to real value and contribution?
In small markets, where everything is quickly discovered, a false image is not sustainable. Today, it only takes one LinkedIn contact or a phone call to verify what you actually did and how much you truly influenced the results. I'm not saying things like this don't slip through, or that some don't deliberately turn a blind eye amid a talent shortage.
And the more we inflate ourselves, the faster we erode trust in the entire profession. Because if everyone is a "director," then the title no longer means anything.
Maybe it's time to return to honesty. To admit what we know, what we are still learning, and where we can truly contribute. To be aware of our value without the false glamour and inflated titles.
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