APA Open Community

We're working on updating our job descriptions for our team members. I'm curious about the job titles others use.

Right now, we use terms like Production Assistant, Customer Service Specialist and Graphic Design Coordinator, with the "assistant", "specialist" and "coordinator" designating the length of time or proficiency in a role. 

We have more and more people voluntarily cross-training and performing tasks not covered by their specific job description. I want to update our job titles and job descriptions to more accurately reflect the work performed. I thought I'd find it easier to update the job descriptions once I determined the titles.

Thanks for any input!

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Judi Brown, Owner
Tacoma Trophy
4021 100th St SW #B, Lakewood WA 98499
253.302.5566
judi@tacomatrophy.com
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We've found a simple diagram stating the "chain of command" removing titles, primarily because we are all cross trained to some extent.  In evaluations we might give a title of manager (for example, Kaitlyn is our manager), but that is giving to someone who can encompass managing all aspects of the shop. I've attached the diagram we currently have in place. This doesn't include part-time or busy season help. 

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Megan Raymond
Owner, Raymond's Trophy & Awards
Bakersfield, CA
661-323-4015
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Thanks Megan!

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Judi Brown, Owner
Tacoma Trophy
4021 100th St SW #B, Lakewood WA 98499
253.302.5566
judi@tacomatrophy.com
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-25-2023 14:45
From: Megan Raymond
Subject: Job titles used in your shop?

We've found a simple diagram stating the "chain of command" removing titles, primarily because we are all cross trained to some extent.  In evaluations we might give a title of manager (for example, Kaitlyn is our manager), but that is giving to someone who can encompass managing all aspects of the shop. I've attached the diagram we currently have in place. This doesn't include part-time or busy season help. 

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Megan Raymond
Owner, Raymond's Trophy & Awards
Bakersfield, CA
661-323-4015
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Hey Judi,

Great question! 

Ultimately, what is the purpose of a job title? There are many answers to that question. But when you boil it down, the only perspective that really matters is  that of the employee. One of the biggest challenges businesses face right now is the ability to ATTRACT employees and RETAIN employees. If your job titles do anything to hinder either of those two goals, you need to rethink them.

One of the best ways to do that is by asking your employees. Are they looking for job titles that really define what they do? (Their job function.) Or job titles that reflect who they are? (What are their special skills.) Something more corporate and structured? Something that lays out a career path they can see? Something more fun or whimsical? What is the "vibe" of your shop? 

This can be a fun group activity that builds connection and comradery. Have some fun with it!

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Dan Messerschmidt
Sioux Falls SD
605.339.4010
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Thanks Dan. We've had some fun with new product contests around here in the past. Maybe now we have a contest related to new job titles?

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Judi Brown, Owner
Tacoma Trophy
4021 100th St SW #B, Lakewood WA 98499
253.302.5566
judi@tacomatrophy.com
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-26-2023 10:44
From: Dan Messerschmidt
Subject: Job titles used in your shop?

Hey Judi,

Great question! 

Ultimately, what is the purpose of a job title? There are many answers to that question. But when you boil it down, the only perspective that really matters is  that of the employee. One of the biggest challenges businesses face right now is the ability to ATTRACT employees and RETAIN employees. If your job titles do anything to hinder either of those two goals, you need to rethink them.

One of the best ways to do that is by asking your employees. Are they looking for job titles that really define what they do? (Their job function.) Or job titles that reflect who they are? (What are their special skills.) Something more corporate and structured? Something that lays out a career path they can see? Something more fun or whimsical? What is the "vibe" of your shop? 

This can be a fun group activity that builds connection and comradery. Have some fun with it!

------------------------------
Dan Messerschmidt
Sioux Falls SD
605.339.4010
------------------------------

Gen Z roles

"Cafe Latee"

Employees who are late for work every day - yet they have time to stop at Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts for coffee when they arrive.

"Smoked Brisket"

Employees can take anywhere from 1-4 hours to do the same job.

"Lavoratory Rider"

Employees who average 5+ trips for bathroom breaks

"Manyana"
Employees with no sense of urgency.  (Why do today, when there is a tomorrow)

"Siri's Sidekick"

Employees who spend more time texting than working

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David Cassens CRS
Arista Trophies & Awards
Bergenfield NJ
201.665.0448
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LOL - this make me laugh!!!

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Megan Raymond
Owner, Raymond's Trophy & Awards
Bakersfield, CA
661-323-4015
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-28-2023 09:04
From: David Cassens
Subject: Job titles used in your shop?

Gen Z roles

"Cafe Latee"

Employees who are late for work every day - yet they have time to stop at Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts for coffee when they arrive.

"Smoked Brisket"

Employees can take anywhere from 1-4 hours to do the same job.

"Lavoratory Rider"

Employees who average 5+ trips for bathroom breaks

"Manyana"
Employees with no sense of urgency.  (Why do today, when there is a tomorrow)

"Siri's Sidekick"

Employees who spend more time texting than working

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David Cassens CRS
Arista Trophies & Awards
Bergenfield NJ
201.665.0448
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My titles are, President, Chief Engraver, Graphic Designer, Head Bookkeeper, Maintenance Supervisor, and Sanitation Engineer. :)

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Anthony Daurio CRS
President
Scholastic Promotions Ltd
Uniondale NY
516.538.0705
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Owner / Project Lead

Owner / Facilities Manager

Production Strategist

Accounts Manager

Technician

Designer

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Shana Beach CRS
Owner
Chase Street Accessories & Engraving
Baltimore MD
833.332.4273 EXT300
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