Is it just me or do we too frequently deify senior management? I don’t care that Bob is the President of The national Audit practice and that I should be shaking my in my boots as he approaches me. He’s just a fucking dude to me, and it’s pathetic to see him as anything else.

Title: Challenging the Cult of Senior Management: A Call for Authenticity

In the corporate world, there seems to be an unwritten rule that elevates senior management to a status akin to royalty. Whether it’s a chief executive officer or a senior partner, there exists a pervasive mentality that demands respect and deference, often bordering on idolization. But does this reverence truly serve us?

Let’s consider a common scenario: you are introduced to a high-ranking official, perhaps the CFO of your firm, and the immediate response from your colleagues is often one of awe—“Did you know you were speaking to Mark?” The implication is clear: you should be intimidated, perhaps even humbled, by the sheer stature of their title.

However, this reverence raises an important question: Why should we feel intimidated by someone simply because of their job title? In my experience, senior managers are just that—senior managers. They are people, just like you and me, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and uncertainties. It’s time we recognize them as such.

The only time I find myself adjusting my demeanor in conversation is when I’m interfacing with clients or team members who depend on my guidance. In those moments, I am committed to being fully present because I value the trust placed in me. But the notion of feeling nervous or insignificant in front of someone due to their position? That’s not an attitude I subscribe to.

Respect should be earned through actions and interpersonal interactions, rather than demanded through titles and hierarchy. The myth of untouchable authority only serves to create barriers in communication and fosters an unhealthy culture of fear. It’s essential to promote an environment where open dialogue and mutual respect prevail, irrespective of rank.

So the next time you find yourself faced with a senior manager, remember: they are just another person. They are not infallible, nor are they exempt from scrutiny. It’s perfectly acceptable to engage with them as equals—after all, we all contribute to the organizational fabric in our own unique ways.

Let’s shift the narrative and cultivate a culture grounded in authenticity, where respect is rooted in actions rather than titles. It’s time we break down the pedestal and foster genuine connections within our workplaces.