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.

The Cult of Senior Management: Why It’s Time to Reassess Our Perspectives

In many professional environments, there’s a tendency to elevate senior management to an almost idolized status. It seems that we often place such individuals on a pedestal, treating them with an exaggerated level of reverence that can be quite unsettling. This scenario raises an important question: Is it really necessary to view senior executives as untouchable figures to be feared or overly admired?

Take, for instance, a common scenario where someone exclaims, “Did you know you were speaking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm.” Responses like these can create an atmosphere of awe that feels unwarranted. At the end of the day, these individuals are just people doing their jobs—nothing more, nothing less.

For me, the distinction becomes clearer in situations where I am engaging with clients or direct reports; in those contexts, I believe it’s vital to be fully present, as others depend on me for support and guidance. However, when it comes to senior management, I refuse to feel intimidated or overwhelmed simply because of a title. Titles should not dictate our respect or fear; rather, they should serve as reminders of the responsibilities that come with authority.

In fostering a more egalitarian workplace, it is crucial to recognize that every team member, regardless of their position, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. Let’s encourage open communication across all levels of an organization and emphasize the value of genuine interactions that are free from the weighty burdens of hierarchy.

It’s time for us to question the culture of deifying individuals in positions of power. After all, leadership should inspire collaboration, not intimidation.