The main game corporate (/management) seems to play is (a) command as much respect as possible in order to (b) sodomize their underlings uncomplainingly to the greatest extent possible.
As long as they can get you to take it uncomplainingly (i.e. "suck it up" due to their fear/respect/intimidation/etc) - then they are a bad-ass ("winning") "honcho". Main ways to demonstrate such respect include happily submitting to unreasonable or degrading demands and even voicing approval.
If not, then their superiors will find someone who can.
This requires striking a delicate balance and might also apply to other social organizations. One clear indicator is demanding respect when really seeking obedience.
All you can do is to (first, "suck it up", and then...) balk as much as possible and even CALL THEM OUT on their (BASE) overtures for obeisance. That, especially the latter, undermines their presumptions of respect.