Named For Success
Not all names are made equally, with some actually giving kids a boost in life. In fact, these names are commonly held by CEOs and successful businesspeople. So, if you want to give your kid an edge or increase their chances of being hired, here are some baby names worth considering. Did we miss any of your favorites?
1. Victor
Victor has a strong connotation with victory and triumph, as the name Victor (or Viktor) is Latin for "winner" or "conqueror." Having such a powerful name lends itself to confidence and drive. This strong identity may also give your kid an advantage in leadership positions and social situations that require strength and resilience.
2. Victoria
On the other hand, Victoria is a female-centric Latin name that means "victory." It's a classic name that suggests elegance and sophistication. It's also a name that exudes a sense of confidence and grace, which can help you stand out in any crowd.
3. Steven
Steven is a Greek name that means "crown" or "honor," a term used to signify reward or status. Popular in the ‘50s and ’60s, there are thousands of executives these days named Steven. It's a name that radiates respect and reward, and Stevens are typically viewed as reliable and competent.
4. Carol
Carol is an English name meaning “strong, free man.” It's also the name of a fierce, independent woman. In 2014, Carol was the 13th most popular name among executives. If you're looking for a name with a quiet classic strength, go with Carol for an edge on professional success.
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5. Peter
Peter is a traditional Greek name that means “rock.” It is a strong, steadfast name that conveys stability and reliability. It has never been in the top 10 in popularity, but it was No. 12 among male executives, suggesting some serious pull in the business world.
6. Jennifer
Jennifer is a Cornish name meaning “white wave” and is a variation of the name Guinevere. Thanks to its wild popularity in the ‘60s and ’70s, Jennifer is seen as a name for a leader. There were 125 executives named Jennifer in 2014.
7. John
John is a traditional Hebrew name meaning “God is gracious.” This strong name conjures images of dependability and solidity, and was a top 10 name until 1987. It is the most popular executive name in the U.S., with nearly 4,700 Johns in executive ranks as of 2014.
8. Mary
Mary is an oldie but a goodie with a Hebrew name meaning “bitter” or “beloved.” For decades, this name has been popular because it sounds strong but feminine and also has connotations of compassion. As Mary has been the No. 1 girls' name for so long, there are a lot of highly successful women in leadership positions with the name.
9. Paul
Paul is derived from the Latin name Paulus, which means “small.” However, being associated with Saint Paul, it is associated with leadership, influence, and conviction. Paul was a runner-up baby name in 2014, and the 10th most popular among executives that same year.
10. Deborah
Deborah is a Hebrew name that means “bee.” Its connotations include being industrious, focused, and wielding the power of a strategically deployed sting. Not very common these days, it was extremely popular in the ’50s and ’60s, and the generation of Deborahs that came from that era are in many positions of power, like Deborah Lloyd, the executive of Kate Spade.
11. James
James is a Hebrew name that means “supplanter” and conjures up images of ambiguity. Someone who will stop at nothing to get to the top! It is a name that has remained in the top 10 since the 1890s and is still in the top 10 as of 2015.
12. Linda
Linda means "pretty," but the name also correlates with hard work and determination. The name gives off powerful and stable vibes, which can be an asset in finding respect and success in competitive fields. Plus, lots of CEOs, including those of Jack in the Box and Wynn Resorts, are named Linda.
13. Mark
Mark is a solid, Biblical name with a strong meaning: “warlike” or “horse,” both of which connote strength, determination, and endurance. While Mark has lost popularity since its time in the top 10, the name remains powerful. It’s found at the top of companies like Nike, Ford, and Goldman Sachs.
14. Nancy
Nancy is a traditional name that means “grace.” Grace is a virtue that can be described as effortless poise. A graceful person has a calm strength. She carries herself with elegance and meets life's storms with composure.
15. David
David is a classic name of Hebrew origin that means "beloved." It is a name that is associated with trust and respect and has been consistently popular since the 1960s. David is the third most common name among male executives, which shows its enduring popularity in the business world.
16. Susan
Susan is a powerful Hebrew name that means “graceful lily.” It’s a name that signifies beauty and strength. While it may not be as popular as a baby name these days, it is still the second most popular name for female executives.
17. Richard
Richard is a name of Germanic origin that means “dominant ruler.” The name Richard has a long history, with many notable people having the name, including King Richard the Lionheart and Richard Branson. The name gives off a sense of power and leadership, contributing to its commanding presence.
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18. Patricia
Patricia is a Latin name meaning “noble.” Patricia is a word that projects the aura of one who would achieve a powerful and distinguished place in life. Noble names are often fit for leaders, and as such, Patricia was the eighth most common female executive name in 2014.
19. William
William is a timeless classic of Germanic origin that means “resolute protector.” The name has remained a solid choice for centuries. Some of the most well-known Williams lead companies from Kate Spade to Apple.
20. Barbara
Barbara is of Greek origin and means “foreign woman.” Barbara is not very common, as it used to be during the ‘50s and ’60s. However, it remains a powerful name and was ranked 6th for female executives in 2014.
