Dear Designers, Ditch the Titles
It’s currently 10:52 PM, and my room is shrouded in darkness while a persistent headache throbs in my head. Despite the discomfort, I feel a pressing need to share my thoughts — there’s too much buzzing in my mind. If I don’t get it out, my head might explode. So, what’s on my mind? Titles, specifically in the realm of design.
Lately, I’ve noticed a pervasive obsession with titles, especially in the design space. The fixation on labels like “senior designer,” “senior product designer,” “head of design,” and “lead designer” has reached an unhealthy level. It’s a trend that needs addressing. Rather than fixating on acquiring these titles, people should redirect their focus towards honing their craft.
Why do I say this? Well, I’ve come across individuals with impressive titles, yet their portfolios and work tell a different story. This raises questions about who bestowed these titles upon them — did they claim them for themselves, or were they granted by their company? And if it’s the latter, how mature is the company?
It’s disconcerting when someone proclaims themselves “head of design” while being the sole designer in a company — whom are they leading?
This obsession with titles often leads to overpromising and underdelivering, a situation that shouldn’t be the norm. The ideal approach is to promise reasonably and then exceed expectations. Now, when considering what makes a senior designer, it’s not solely about the number of years in the industry.
Experience matters, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all metric. A person with three years of experience might surpass someone with six years if their contribution and exposure to diverse challenges are more substantial. The company you work for also plays a role. A mature company dealing with a variety of projects exposes you to situations that can give you a significant edge.
However, it’s not just about experience. The second crucial factor is skills, both hard and soft. Hard skills, such as design proficiency, are easily verifiable through your portfolio. But soft skills — communication, collaboration, problem-solving approach — are often overlooked. These skills are what truly differentiate a junior designer from a senior one.
A senior designer isn’t just about technical expertise; it’s about how effectively you convey ideas, collaborate with others, and lead a team towards crafting solutions. Soft skills are the often-neglected key to career progression.
So, for those starting out, my advice is not to fixate on titles. Companies determine your value, and a title in one organisation might not hold the same weight in another. Instead, focus on your craft, your growth as a designer, and how you can make a real impact. Your ability to solve problems, communicate effectively, and lead is what will set you apart, not just a flashy title.
In conclusion, rather than obsessing over titles, channel that energy into becoming a designer who excels at taking ideas from inception to tangible, revenue-generating products. That’s the true mark of success in the design world. And with that, I conclude my thoughts for tonight.
