Rethinking Our Reverence for Senior Management

In many workplace cultures, there’s a tendency to place senior management on pedestals, elevating them to near-untouchable statuses. But is this reverence truly warranted, or is it time to reassess how we view those at the top?

Take, for instance, the common reaction many people have when encountering a high-ranking official—like the President of a major Audit practice. The expectation is that you should feel awed or intimidated simply because of their title. Yet, shouldn’t we recognize that these leaders, much like anyone else in the office, are just individuals doing their jobs?

For example, it’s often said, “Did you know you were speaking to Mark, the CFO of the firm?” But honestly, does that distinction really matter in the day-to-day interactions? It shouldn’t. The reality is that when we communicate with someone—be it a client, a colleague, or a direct report—our focus should be on the substance of the conversation, rather than the hierarchy in the room.

Respect is essential in any workplace, but it should not be coerced through titles or positions. Genuine engagement stems from treating everyone with a level of dignity, irrespective of their rank. For me, the only time I feel a significant obligation is when I’m interacting with clients or team members who rely on me for guidance or support. In those situations, my responsibility is to be completely present and attentive.

So, let’s challenge the notion that we should feel intimidated by seniority. It’s high time we viewed our superiors as equals in a professional setting, fostering a culture of respect that is mutual, rather than one based on fear or status. After all, we’re all just people navigating the complexities of our work lives together.