I have been finding recently that candidates are getting bent out of shape and turning down positions because of a “title discrepancy”. I understand that one aspect of career progress is moving up the ranks. However, if you have the option to be an ACD at a shop that produces low-budget dairy ads or a Sr. Copywriter at a shop that generates conceptual work on a national level I would think that the choice would be obvious. It seems I have been foiled again. Time and time again I see people choose title over work quality which will inevitably stifle their career because portfolios are what’s worth money not just “time served” in the industry. Now, I’m not advocating humbling yourself from a Creative Director to an Intern. Goodness no. I’m just saying if the pay is there and the work is awesome then what on earth is the problem? If it helps I’ll give you a special name. How does ECD of Douche-baggery sound? Oh, do you think that’s weird or inappropriate? Well, I think it’s weird that you won’t take a job because of semantics. I had a guy tell me once that he couldn’t take the senior level position because his old Art Director partner was already at an ACD level, so he needed at least an ACD role. Said individual, mind you, had just been laid off and there were no ACD positions open in his geographical area. And I was thinking, “Really? You would rather chance not having a job and then running into him your first day working McDonald’s Drive Thru abashedly adorned with a hair net?” Yeah, that won’t be awkward. He’ll also probably order the triple decker with extra meat and casually roll up to the window with your girlfriend on his arm. Do you see how quickly not taking a job because of a title discrepancy can quickly spiral out of control? It’s a dangerous game people. Of course, I am not suggesting that you should be willing to take a creative, salary, and title hit all at the same time. What I am saying is that if you get offered a position where the work is conceptual and the salary is above your current income then get off the title thing already. You are going to miss out on a lot of great positions because of your ego-centric tunnel vision. Advertising is about THE WORK and everything else is secondary.

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