Challenging the Cult of Senior Management: Why Titles Shouldn’t Define Our Interactions

In today’s corporate culture, there tends to be an unhealthy reverence for those in senior management positions. This phenomenon begs the question: why do we elevate individuals like CEOs or CFOs to such an untouchable pedestal? Is it just me, or have we become overly adoring of titles while neglecting the reality that these leaders are, at their core, just people?

Take, for instance, Bob, the President of the National Audit Practice. While the expectation might be to feel intimidated or star-struck by his title, I find this mentality to be unproductive. Bob is just a person with a job, and it feels almost absurd to react to him as if he were something more.

“Aren’t you impressed? That’s Mark, our CFO,” someone might exclaim. My response? Honestly, I’m indifferent. Titles can signify responsibility and expertise, but they don’t diminish the common humanity we all share.

The only time I truly feel the weight of hierarchy is during client interactions or when I’m communicating with someone who directly reports to me. In those moments, I recognize the importance of being fully engaged and present, as others depend on me for guidance and support. However, when it comes to senior executives? I refuse to let their ranks instill fear or awe in me. I believe we should engage with them as equals rather than subordinates.

The truth is, healthy workplace dynamics thrive when we dismantle the myth of the untouchable executive. Let’s promote an environment where everyone, regardless of their title, is approachable and relatable. Instead of letting hierarchical constructs dictate our relationships, we can foster genuine interactions that enhance collaboration and mutual respect.

Moving forward, let’s embrace the philosophy that everyone in the workplace is simply a person, deserving of respect and attention for their contributions—but not their title. After all, we are in this journey together, and true partnership requires casting aside unnecessary hierarchies.