The Illusion of Authority: Why We Overinflate Senior Management

In corporate culture, there’s a pervasive tendency to elevate senior management figures to a status that almost borders on idolization. This phenomenon raises an intriguing question: should we really put senior executives on a pedestal, or should we just recognize them as fellow colleagues doing a job?

Take, for example, the common reaction when someone mentions the title of CFO or President. “Oh my gosh, did you realize you were talking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm!” While this enthusiasm may be well-intentioned, the truth is that such titles should not dictate how we interact with one another. Titles are simply a reflection of one’s role within an organization; they do not inherently define a person’s worth or competence.

The reality is that senior managers are just people, like the rest of us. They have their strengths and weaknesses, just as we do. Expecting anyone to “shake in their boots” at the sight of an executive is not only counterproductive, but it may also create an unhealthy work environment where ideas become stifled and innovation falters due to fear of reprisal from those in power.

My focus lies not in the hierarchy of titles, but in the quality of engagement, particularly during client interactions or when guiding team members. In these situations, I prioritize authenticity and the responsibility that comes with guiding others. When it comes to senior authority figures, however, I refuse to let their titles overwhelm my perspective. Respect is earned through actions and character, not just a handful of letters on a business card.

So, let’s remember: while senior management may hold titles of importance, at the end of the day, they are simply part of the team, just like everyone else. By dismantling the facade of infallibility surrounding our leaders, we create a more collaborative and productive environment for all, where ideas can flow freely without the fear of stepping on a ‘manager’s’ toes.