Rethinking Our Reverence for Senior Management

In today’s corporate culture, it seems we often place senior management on a pedestal, viewing them as untouchable figures within our organizations. However, this tendency to idolize leaders can hinder true communication and collaboration.

Take Bob, for example, the President of the National Audit Practice. Many would feel intimidated in his presence, almost as if they need to show him undue respect simply because of his title. To me, Bob is just a person—one who happens to hold a prestigious position, but still, just another colleague at the end of the day. It’s disheartening to see individuals succumb to the illusion that titles define worth or competency.

I often hear remarks along the lines of, “Did you know you were speaking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm.” My reaction is simple: it doesn’t matter to me. What truly counts is the value of the conversation and the mutual respect between individuals, regardless of their role in the organization.

In my experience, the only time the title resonates with me is when I’m talking to clients or team members who depend on my guidance. At those moments, I feel an obligation to be fully engaged and present. However, when it comes to higher-ups, I refuse to let the hierarchy intimidate me. There’s no reason for me to feel anxious in their presence simply because of their rank.

Let’s strive to rebuild a culture where everyone—regardless of their position—is seen as a person first, fostering authentic relationships and open dialogue. This shift not only enhances our work environment but also promotes collaboration and innovation. So, let’s drop the deification of senior management and focus on what truly matters: mutual respect.