The Illusion of Authority: Challenging the Cult of Senior Management

In today’s corporate culture, it seems there’s a tendency to elevate senior management figures to a status that borders on reverence. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone turns to you and says, “Did you know you were speaking to the CFO?” Moments like these often come with an expectation to treat these individuals with an undeserved sense of awe and respect. But the reality is, they are just people—no more or less fallible than anyone else in the organization.

I’ve encountered this mindset time and time again, and frankly, it’s quite unsettling. Take, for example, a conversation with someone like Bob, the President of the National Audit Practice. While many would feel a rush of anxiety in his presence, I view him simply as a colleague—another human being navigating the complexities of the business world. Why should I be intimidated by a title?

It’s essential to remind ourselves that senior status does not automatically confer wisdom or superiority. When it comes to my interactions, the only time I truly feel the weight of responsibility is when I’m engaging with clients or directly overseeing those who depend on me. In those moments, my focus is on being fully present and addressing their needs—not on the hierarchy of titles.

Ultimately, the preoccupation with authority figures can hinder open communication and collaboration within the workplace. It can breed fear and inhibit the exchange of ideas. Instead of viewing higher-ups as untouchable figures, we should strive for a culture that values each individual’s contributions regardless of their rank. Let’s celebrate humanity in the workplace and recognize that titles don’t define our worth or capabilities.