Hooked on Titles: Why We Care More About the Label Than the Job

You know that person.They just updated their LinkedIn - again.Same company, same role, but now they’re a “Senior Specialist” instead of a “Specialist.”

Cool. But… why do we care so much?

Titles Are the New Designer Handbags

Let’s call it what it is: job titles have become status symbols.In the same way someone flexes a luxury watch or a pair of limited-edition sneakers, people flex titles. A flashy title says, I’ve made it. Even if behind the scenes, not much has changed except the email signature.

And here’s the kicker: some folks are so obsessed, they’ll take a fancy title over a higher salary. Wild, right?

It's All About Perception

People crave recognition. A title makes you feel seen, respected - even if your job didn’t magically become more meaningful. You could be doing the exact same work, but “Lead UX Architect” sounds way cooler than “Designer.”

It’s not just vanity. It’s optics. In a world where we’re Googled before we’re greeted, your title becomes your elevator pitch.

The Downside of the Title Chase

But here’s the dark side: when people chase titles, they often stop chasing real growth. They’ll accept a hollow promotion with a better title but no raise, or stay in toxic environments just to hold onto their “Director” status.

It’s easy to get addicted to the label and forget the bigger picture - am I actually becoming better at what I do? Am I learning, building, impacting?

What If We Let the Work Speak?

Imagine a world where we cared more about craft than titles. Where “What do you do?” meant “What are you passionate about?” - not “What’s the fanciest thing on your business card?”

Because the people who actually make the biggest impact? They’re usually too busy doing the work to obsess over what they’re called.

So sure, be proud of your role. Update that LinkedIn. But remember: your title is the headline. The real story is what you do every day.