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 Perils of Idolizing Senior Management: A Call for Authenticity in the Workplace

In many corporate environments, there’s an overwhelming tendency to place leaders on pedestals, elevating them to levels of reverence that can often feel unwarranted. This phenomenon raises a fundamental question: Why do we so often glorify senior management?

Take, for instance, the situation where a colleague mentions, “Did you know you’re speaking to Mark? He’s the CFO of the firm.” While this may prompt awe or nervousness in some, for me, it elicits a different reaction entirely. To me, Mark is simply a fellow professional navigating the same challenges and responsibilities we all face—no different from anyone else in the office.

This tendency to deify figures in leadership is not only unnecessary but can also be detrimental. It cultivates an environment of fear and intimidation rather than one of open communication and collaboration. The reality is, senior authority shouldn’t command undue fear or respect simply because of their title. They are, after all, just individuals who happen to hold high positions.

The only moments where my demeanor shifts in the presence of upper management occur during interactions with clients or when I’m mentoring a direct report. In those situations, I feel a profound responsibility to be present and engaged. My commitment is to those who depend on my guidance and support. When it comes to senior management, however, I refuse to let their titles dictate my comfort level or influence my interactions.

It’s time to challenge the status quo and encourage a culture where all employees, regardless of rank, can communicate openly and honestly. When we recognize that everyone has something valuable to contribute, we pave the way for a more inclusive and less intimidating work environment.

Let’s embrace authenticity and engage with each other as equals, setting aside the unnecessary hierarchy that can stifle genuine conversation. After all, the true strength of any organization lies in its collective effort, not just its leadership.