#professional-identity

#professional-identity

A deed poll is a legal document used in the UK to formally record a change of name. It allows an individual to update their name across official and professional records, including employment documents, payroll systems, and business registrations. In the workplace, consistency of personal details is more than an administrative preference. Employers rely on accurate records for contracts, tax reporting, background checks, and internal systems. A mismatch between names can create unnecessary delays, confusion, or credibility issues, particularly in regulated or senior roles.

Titles convey status, imply expertise, and signal values. They help us connect quickly with others by giving us a shorthand for how to understand and relate to another person. Studies show that titles can even increase satisfaction with work. One study authored by Adam Grant found letting employees choose their own title improved feelings of psychological safety and reduced emotional exhaustion by up to 10% in five weeks.

One way to enhance your ability to work with people is to beware of preconceptions and first impressions. Deciding that you know what to expect from another person based on limited and sometimes mistaken information is a sure way to hinder the relationship-if not completely derail it. Even worse is to label the other person. The labels, names, and characterizations we put on other people create barriers to effective relationships.