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 Problem with Idolizing Senior Management: A Call for Authenticity

In today’s corporate landscape, it seems that the reverence for senior management often overshadows the importance of authenticity and equality in the workplace. Time and again, we hear stories that emphasize the need to treat executives as infallible figures rather than the human beings they truly are. But is this idolization really necessary?

Take, for instance, the common reaction to someone like Bob, the President of a national Audit practice. Many people might feel intimidated, believing they must put him on a pedestal simply because of his title. However, I find it perplexing that we allow such hierarchies to dictate our interactions. To me, he’s just an individual doing his job, and that’s how it should be perceived.

It’s not uncommon to hear phrases like, “Did you know you were speaking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm,” followed by a wave of reverence that I simply can’t understand. My response? It doesn’t make a difference to me.

The only scenario in which title matters is when I’m engaged with clients or team members who genuinely depend on my leadership and presence. In those moments, my commitment to being fully engaged is paramount. But beyond that, I refuse to let titles instill fear or dictate respect.

Why should we feel compelled to bow down to authority figures based solely on their positional power? It’s essential to foster an environment where respect is mutual and not reserved for those on higher rungs of the corporate ladder. We should strive for a culture where authenticity reigns supreme, empowering everyone—regardless of title—to contribute equally to the conversation. Let’s choose to interact with integrity and honesty, valuing people for who they are, not just what they represent.

In conclusion, it’s time to shift our perspective and dismantle the pedestal we build for senior management. After all, in the end, we’re all just individuals trying to navigate our roles—let’s remember that as we move forward together.