One common trend in the tech industry is the global tech companies are pushing themselves to become more ruthless once again. These companies are enforcing office returns, cutting back on benefits, increasing pressure on employees, and laying off workers repeatedly. The goal is to enhance the organization’s efficiency, whether achievable or just to make the quarterly performance reports look better. However, NVIDIA seems to be an exception to this trend. While companies like Shopify, Microsoft, Meta, and Google are striving to accelerate and trim non-performing employees to compete in the AI-driven world, NVIDIA has been in this mode for a long time.
The intense and earnest work culture at NVIDIA is not a result of the AI boom but has been deeply embedded in the company for a long time, emphasizing speed, clarity, and full accountability. All of this stems from the foundation and organizational culture laid down by CEO Jensen Huang. The company’s flat structure, with around 60 employees reporting directly to Huang, is considered significant for a company of its size.
The company’s motto “the mission is the boss” signifies that everyone must focus on the company’s goals rather than brown-nosing the bosses for career advancement. If an employee’s project becomes crucial, they might be summoned for a direct report with Huang, akin to a pilot who must control the aircraft, take full responsibility, and be prepared for tough questions from Huang.
Huang’s ability to recall details, closely monitor various projects, and address mistakes or misunderstandings in meetings helps everyone learn and grow together, not to create drama or humiliate individuals. An interesting facet is NVIDIA’s work hours, averaging 60 hours per week or sometimes reaching 80 hours during peak times. Despite the demanding schedule, employees do not feel the urge to resign or burn out, reflecting in the low turnover rate of less than 5% over two years without layoffs since 2008.
NVIDIA stands out as one of the few companies supporting remote work, unlike other tech giants pressuring employees to return to the office. This difference is not merely based on Huang’s trust in his employees but due to the company’s responsible system where everyone is expected to contribute. For instance, Huang sends hundreds of emails daily and expects everyone to update their tasks weekly.
Moreover, Huang’s wife, who formerly worked as an electrical engineer, had to leave her job to care for their child. Thus, Huang wanted to create a system where women, especially mothers, could continue working without sacrificing family or career, hence promoting a work-from-home culture.
All these factors have shaped NVIDIA into a modern work culture model that many companies are trying to emulate post-COVID-19. While some are struggling to adapt, NVIDIA’s authentic ruthlessness has been ingrained from the beginning. Employees appreciate this seriousness, knowing they are here to create remarkable things, not partake in office politics on a daily basis.
TLDR: NVIDIA stands out in the tech industry by maintaining a robust work culture rooted in accountability, efficiency, and a focus on the company’s mission, with CEO Jensen Huang’s leadership setting the tone for relentless dedication and innovation.
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