The trend of creative EA titles and imposter syndrome.

I’ve always been proud to call myself an Executive Assistant. It’s a role that's not only stood the test of time but continues to evolve, adapt, and hold real strategic weight in today’s professional landscape.

So I’ll be honest, when I see new, creative job titles pop up like Scheduling Wizard, Organisation Fairy or Chief Chaos Wrangler, it makes me raise an eyebrow. Sure, they’re quirky and they look fun in a signature block however for me, they dilute the true impact and credibility of a role that’s anything but whimsical.

To me, it feels similar to labels like Mum-preneur or She-EO; they're well-meaning, maybe even empowering for some, showcasing that we can wear all the hats and kick butt at the same time. However, more often I feel that there's something else bubbling under the surface; perhaps something rooted in a collective discomfort around owning the strength of our original titles. Sure I don't want to be called a secretary, but not because it's 'less than' but because we've evolved from there. I’m proud to be a Founder, an Executive Assistant, a business owner and a mum. I don’t need to merge those titles into something cutesy or trendy for them to feel meaningful.

It makes me wonder...do we do this because we’ve been conditioned to soften ourselves? Because imposter syndrome still creeps in? Because we don’t want to be the “tall poppy”? Maybe, maybe not. I believe there’s something powerful in calling ourselves what we truly are, especially when that title already carries so much weight.

Now, let me pause here to say that this blog isn't a judgement on those that do adopt other titles. If calling yourself an Ops Ninja or Time-Taming Unicorn makes you feel empowered, I’m cheering for you. We should all use the title that makes us feel strongest, happiest, and proudest. But I do wonder: will Organisation Fairy hold up on a CV ten years from now? Will it clearly communicate the value and scope of what we do?

Trends come and go but the role of the EA continues to deliver real impact, often behind the scenes. It's a position of privilege and influence. We see an organisation from a cross-section perspective and support key decision makers and senior leaders. Maybe it’s time we take back the title, wear it with pride, and remind people just how vital it is.

I’d love to know—what title do you use, and why? Are you proudly claiming the EA title, or embracing something a little more creative?