CEO, Owner, or Founder: Choosing the Best Title for Your Business
13 Sep 2024
CEO, Owner, or Founder: Choosing the Best Title for Your Business
Choosing the right title for your business is crucial, as it impacts how you are perceived by employees, lenders, and clients. Titles like “CEO,” “Owner,” and “Founder” carry distinct meanings and should align with your business structure and responsibilities.
A “CEO” implies authority and a formal corporate structure, often boosting credibility with investors. On the other hand, “Owner” signifies complete control but may seem vague in comparison. “Founder” emphasizes your role in starting the company but does not reflect current operational duties, so combining it with titles like “CEO” or “Creative Director” is ideal.
Other titles like “Director,” “Managing Partner,” or “President” indicate involvement in daily operations or leadership, while “Managing Member” and “General Manager” are common for LLCs. The title you choose should resonate with your company’s long-term goals and how you want to be viewed in your industry.
Additionally, your business’s legal structure, such as sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation, influences your title selection. For instance, “Member” or “Managing Member” is formal for LLCs, while corporations often use titles like “CEO” or “Chairman.” Ultimately, the title should align with your vision and convey authority to employees, customers, and stakeholders.