Elon Musk emails Tesla staff with strict rules to slash meetings and streamline communication

On April 17, 2018, Elon Musk circulated a memo to all Tesla workers outlining a set of productivity guidelines. He labeled excessive meetings as a “blight of big companies” and demanded that large gatherings be kept brief and only held when they clearly benefit every attendee. Employees were told to exit meetings or calls as soon as they realize they are not contributing, with Musk stating that it is rude to make others stay.

The email also banned the use of acronyms or confusing jargon, arguing that such language hampers clear communication. Musk warned that any manager who insists on a strict chain-of-command for information flow would soon find themselves reassigned. He encouraged staff to communicate directly across departments and to propose any ideas that could make Tesla operate more efficiently.