Rethinking Leadership: Why We Shouldn’t Deify Senior Management

In today’s corporate culture, there seems to be an alarming trend of elevating senior management to an almost untouchable status. It’s common to hear phrases like, “Did you know you were talking to the CFO?” or “Oh, that’s the president of the national Audit practice!” But why do we feel compelled to put these individuals on pedestals? Shouldn’t we perceive them as just people—flawed and human like the rest of us?

Let’s confront the uncomfortable truth: we often cower in awe before figures of authority, losing sight of their humanity. Just because someone holds a prestigious title doesn’t mean they deserve our reverence. In a professional setting, there seems to be a misplaced belief that rank dictates respect. In my view, treating senior leaders as mere mortals is not only refreshing—it’s essential for a healthy workplace culture.

The only scenario in which I truly focus on someone’s seniority is when I’m interacting with clients or direct reports. In those moments, I feel a genuine responsibility to engage fully and meet their needs. Outside of that, I have no inclination to harbor fear or intimidation simply because someone has climbed the corporate ladder.

It’s crucial for all of us to remember: leadership comes with its own set of challenges. While we must respect the roles individuals play within an organization, we should also recognize that behind every title is a human being with their own vulnerabilities and imperfections. It’s time to shift our perspective and embrace a culture where we view senior management as colleagues rather than demigods—after all, we’re all in this together.