Confession: I hardly ever introduced myself as a “consultant” to new clients.
That word? It usually triggered a mix of side-eye and polite-but-obvious skepticism.
Don’t get me wrong, leading with your title is not a problem. Especially if you are a “native” of your corporate hive. (Corporate hive and corporate hive mind are my terms for corporate culture and its specific ways of thinking.)
Titles are useful. They’re shorthand for your influence, your rank and your ability to get things done. But here’s the thing: have you noticed that titles rarely reflect the value you actually create for your organization?
Years ago, I worked on a project designing a space plane (yes, it was as cool as it sounds.) My role? Reorganizing how the team sequenced its work and reported progress. The project would make the client a ton of money AND bragging rights in their industry.
But, as a consultant–an outsider–I knew my title wasn’t going to open doors with other “worker bees” and leaders. Especially if I needed something from them.
So, I avoided signaling that I wasn’t “native”. Instead, I led with the value: the outcomes we were working toward and why it mattered. The project’s strategic priority got people’s attention–and their cooperation–faster than my title ever could.
Fast-forward to my life as a business creator. (Business creator? You know those fierce entrepreneurs who bootstrap their business.)
Here’s what I’ve learned: Clients aren’t impressed by your title. They care about what you can actually do for them.
That’s why this simple shift—leading with the value you create—will be your calling card.
Here’s how:
Complete this mad lib style sentence for 2-3 of your top responsibilities.
I (action verb phrase) _______ SO THAT _________ (the benefit of the action and who receives it.)
Here’s an example from my space plane project.
When you say these sentences out loud, notice how you feel in your body. Compare that to how you usually introduce yourself.
Take it one step further: Introduce yourself this way over the next week. Notice how others respond. Is it different? Better? Worse?
I’d love to hear how it goes. Hit reply and tell me what came up for you.
Tomorrow, we’ll take another step in dismantling your corporate hive mind-and I’ll share more about my upcoming training to fully break-free from the title trap.
Cheers,
Pierre
Certified Professional Coach
P.S. – Feeling ready to start digging the well before your thirsty? Email me at pierre @ pierrebradette dot com let me know what’s holding you back—or what’s inspiring you to take the first step. Let’s start the conversation.
P.P.S. – Missed my first email about why your job title might actually be keeping you stuck? It’s a good one—and it might change the way you think about success. Click here to catch up.
P.P.P.S – If you haven’t gotten any of the prior emails, it’s probably because they are in spam purgatory. Check your spam folder to let my emails in. 😀If you are using Gmail, be sure to move this email to the Primary category to get past those filters.
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