"And how do you title your valuable employees?"
Dear readers! I am currently reading a book - a pretty brilliant one, in my opinion! Perhaps you have already heard of "The Big Five for Live," after all, author John Strelecky is currently on everyone's lips. In his work, he deals with the question of what makes a good leader. Without wanting to advertise here, I would like to share a thought from the book with you. The passage that particularly impressed me is about the hardworking and dedicated employee Josephine. She is responsible for the reception area of a multimillion-dollar company. Josephine is not referred to as a reception assistant or receptionist. Her name tag bears the title Director of First Impressions. This clearly illustrates what the employee stands for in the company. It once again made me realize that titles and job designations have much more meaning than we often realize - for the wearer, but also as a symbol to the outside world. Primarily, the employee should, of course, feel comfortable with the personal designation. A nice title can strengthen the wearer's self-esteem. Those of you who attentively read my columns know that I used to work in the field of gastronomy and hotel management. It is common there to have a "Chef de Rang" (Head Waiter), a "Facility Manager" (Caretaker), or a "Front Office Manager" (Receptionist). Recently, when I was chatting with an apprentice, he told me how much he was looking forward to the end of his apprenticeship. Because then, he would finally be able to remove his name tag with the note "Apprentice." The young man explained that he would finally be perceived as a full-fledged employee. This example shows how important it is to deal with titles and designations. Perhaps the aforementioned apprentice would have felt much more valued with the designation "RISING STAR" or "HIGH POTENTIAL"? I am always on the lookout for great job titles. Recently, I discovered the "CLEANING FAIRIES" at a very popular ski and wellness hotel. The largest event resort in Europe has long employed no more "hostesses"; instead, the young ladies call themselves "HOSTESSES." A well-known Austrian beverage manufacturer transformed the dull and blunt designation "Field Sales Representative" or even "FSR" into "MUSKETEERS" many years ago. And they do indeed fight in the market outside like the heroes of the movie of the same name. You may realize that small changes can have a big impact. Be creative and consider what designations could suit your team members. In my experience, the best ideas often come from those who are not too happy with their own designation - after all, our employees know exactly what image they want to convey externally. So why not let them proactively participate in the decision-making process? I suggest that at your next meeting, you ask your team for suitable and fun ideas for the various job titles. Perhaps this will work even better if you collect anonymous suggestions and then discuss them together? I am sure your employees will appreciate it. In addition, it will also convey to customers that valuable employees are working in your company who receive the appreciation they deserve. Warm regards, Maria-Theresa Schinnerl 
