“Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion.”
- Jack Welch, Chairman and CEO of General Electric (1981-2001)
What's in the name? This is the most common mindset that many small business owners have. However, choosing an appropriate small business owner title for your role can help you establish yourself as a leader among your clients and consumers.
When selecting titles for small business owners, make sure titles align with business aims and objectives. Your business title should undoubtedly represent the kind of responsibilities you hold in an organization. Once your business expands and scales, it is critical to focus on narrowing your duties and getting your business to the next level. Therefore, choosing the appropriate title enables you to establish who you are, the structure of your business, and your organization's culture.
Around 80% of
business success is determined by the title of the ideal business owner. (Source: BD Task)
This article will help you select the right one from a long list of small business owner titles.
Why Are Small Business Owner Titles Important?
Determining the appropriate business job titles can be
challenging for a small business owner. As the leader of an organization, you will frequently be referred to as a business owner, although this term may not accurately represent your roles and responsibilities.
The small business owner job title you pick should reflect your personality and your organization's culture while also clearly indicating your affiliation to the business to customers and clients. There are several reasons why choosing the ideal small business owner title is critical for both you and your firm.
Having the right title gives you and your company credibility, authority, and validity. Giving oneself a title might help you understand your obligations as your organization grows. Business position titles help your co-workers and employees understand your designation in the system and how you might support them. Therefore, titles significantly influence you and people in your immediate vicinity.
Popular Titles for Small Business Owners That Make a Difference
Founder
This title unequivocally refers to the person who founded or created the firm, from business concepts to product or service development. The term “founder” denotes that the organization is your brainchild and you have been associated with it from its very inception. While using this title suggests who you are, it does not convey much information about your day-to-day role in the firm. As a result, the term “founder” is frequently used in conjunction with a secondary firm owner title. For instance, "Founder and Chief Executive Officer" or "Founder and Creative Director."
CEO
CEO is the most commonly used title in any company and it implies that you are a strategic thinker. CEOs have a holistic view of the business and have the last word before any signature move. However, the titleholder is not involved in the firm's daily operations.
Often, there is an unsaid understanding that the position of a CEO is reserved for larger organizations. Small business owners wait until they reach a specific size before incorporating this position. The CEO of a corporation reports to a board of directors comprised of shareholders. The primary function of a CEO is to develop a well-established company and build a strong and large workforce.
C-Suite Titles
C-Suite titles are lower in the hierarchy and less formal, but they give an impression that you are at the top of the firm. Various C-level titles that highlight your roles, responsibilities, and your importance to your business's executive team.
For example,
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Chief software developer
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Chief designer
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Chief operation officer
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Chief technology officer
Whatever may be your key area of
focus within the business organization, there is a C-level title that corresponds. A C-level is the most valuable business position title. If your primary objective is to have your title that accurately reflects your role in the organization, it is the best alternative.
President
If the principal goal of the small business owner’s title is to give the impression that you are in a powerful position, the title “president” is unquestionably significant. The title confers a sense of authority, power, and respect on you and ensures your words and decisions are taken seriously. If your organization does not have a board of directors, you may choose to be president, as this title does not imply that you report to the committee.
Keep your corporate legal organization in mind when deciding between a president and a CEO.
How Real-world Entrepreneurs Came up with Their Business Names?
Reagan Jobe's position at the software startup EasyCheck includes the title "chief solver." The business title he chose established his position inside the corporation. As a result, when consumers encounter challenges or roadblocks, they know who to turn to for assistance.
Another example, Paige Arnof-Fenn, who used the title of “Founder and CEO” since the inception of her marketing firm, Maven & Moguls, in 2002. Her goal was to ensure that everyone knew they were speaking with the CEO. It is a common belief that people respect the position even before meeting the individual.
Tips for Choosing Small Business Owner Titles
There are a few things to be considered when thinking of business owner titles as your business grows. The following are tips for picking suitable business job titles:
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Your title should clearly define your role in the company
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Ensure your title indicate that you at the top of the company hierarchy
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Your title needs to be aligned with your company culture
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Your title should be understandable to both customers and employees
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Choose titles according to your area of expertise
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The small business owner titles should be assigned considering the future needs and expertise
Conclusion
Find the best-suited business job titles. Evaluate how they perform for you and whether the title is appropriate for your company's culture. Using the ideal small business owner titles from the above list may
shape your organization.
FAQ
What is the business title?
The business title is also referred to as a job title. Titles usually determine an employee's status within an organization and define their roles.
What is the best title for a business owner?
The best title for a business owner will be CEO, the highest-ranked position in an organization.
What are some business title examples?
A few business title examples are:
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CEO
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President
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Managing Director
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Founder
What is the top position in a company?
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the highest-ranking official in a company and is ultimately responsible for managerial decisions that affect the day-to-day operations.