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: Rethinking the Reverence for Senior Management

In many workplaces, there seems to be an unspoken rule that senior management is to be revered almost like royalty. Yet, isn’t it time we questioned this mentality? While titles and positions undoubtedly come with responsibility and expertise, they should not elevate individuals above their human status.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: You’re proudly conversing with a colleague when suddenly, someone whispers, “Do you realize that’s Bob, the President of the National Audit Practice?” The implication is clear—this is a moment to be awestruck and intimidated. But why should that be the case? To me, Bob is simply a fellow professional—a person like anyone else, not some untouchable figure to be feared or idolized.

The reality is, an individual’s title does not automatically dictate their worth or value as a human being. I often find myself wondering why so many of us feel compelled to elevate those in senior roles, as if their titles grant them exceptional qualities that deserve more respect than the average employee.

Yes, I appreciate the necessity of demonstrating professionalism when engaging with clients or those who report to me; their reliance on my guidance inspires me to be wholly attentive. However, when it comes to senior leaders, I refuse to succumb to a culture of fear and deference just because of their position.

Respect should be earned through actions, competence, and meaningful communication—not bestowed simply because someone has a corner office or holds an influential title. We should strive to engage with everyone on an equal playing field, treating colleagues, regardless of their rank, with the same level of respect and regard.

In short, let’s move toward a workplace culture that values authenticity and genuine relationships over hierarchical reverence. After all, at the core, we’re all just people navigating the complexities of business together.