Deflating the Myth of Senior Management: A Call for Authenticity in the Workplace

In today’s corporate landscape, there’s a pervasive tendency to elevate senior management to an almost untouchable status. However, it’s crucial to question whether this deification truly serves the best interests of our workplaces or if it merely fosters an environment of fear and subservience.

Take, for example, the reaction that often accompanies encountering high-ranking officials. You might overhear someone exclaim in awe, “Did you know you were speaking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm!” While many might gasp in reverence, my reaction is quite the opposite. To me, he’s just another person, bearing the same flaws and complexities as the rest of us.

We need to confront the culture of intimidation that surrounds senior figures in organizations. Yes, titles like “President of the National Audit Practice” may carry weight, but they also do not define a person’s worth. It’s troubling to witness colleagues feeling intimidated or overwhelmed because of someone’s position. Everyone deserves to be treated as equals, regardless of hierarchy.

When I engage with clients or team members, I fully recognize my responsibility to provide my undivided attention and support. Those interactions are about fostering relationships founded on mutual respect and accountability. But when it comes to senior management, the notion of feeling subordinate should not be accepted as the norm. It’s perfectly reasonable to maintain a level of confidence and composure, irrespective of a title.

By championing a more egalitarian approach in the workplace, we encourage open communication and authentic connections among all employees. Let’s shift our mindset: senior management should not be seen as deities, but rather as collaborators who contribute to the collective success of the organization. After all, we all share the same goal of achieving greatness—together.