Teacher, Tutor, Educator, Facilitator…

What’s in a name?

How do we know how to label ourselves in a saturated world of classes, groups, workshops, and sessions? I’ve pondered this a fair bit, and for me, it’s credentials and experience that make the difference.

Hobbyists have their place, given their experience and skill.

Then there’s a person who’s educated to a higher level (say 6 or 7) in their field. This is experience, knowledge, and a tried and tested individual you can trust to provide answers and direction.

And then some individuals have a combination of education and lived experience. They live their specialism with regular practice and dedication.

There are many people with unique journeys who must decide how to introduce themselves to their audience.

I label myself a tutor because my teaching specialism is higher education. I also fundamentally don’t like the word teacher. It has a lot of negative connotations for me, both personally and professionally. But also an artist because that’s what I am. I think it’s difficult to get this right because people interpret these titles individually anyway. But I think choosing it, and it representing you authentically and in the closest way possible, is what matters. That way, your audience can make a decision about what you offer…