The Facts
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk reportedly sent an email to employees on Tues. stating that they must spend a minimum of 40 hours a week in the office.
In his email to Tesla workers, Musk stated "If you don't show up, we will assume you have resigned." Musk sent a similar message to his SpaceX employees with the subject line "Remote work is no longer acceptable."
The Spin
Narrative A
Working from home and hybrid work will be the organizational legacy of COVID. Only 4% of employers advocate forcing employees to return to the office full-time. As employees have gained the upper hand in a tight labor market, employers like Musk who demand a full return to the office will only fuel the Great Resignation.
Narrative B
With Tesla facing stiff competition from other auto manufacturers, Musk knows that the best innovation occurs in face-to-face meetings. His policy also ensures that only the most loyal of employees choose to remain on the team. Developing an in-person company culture has meaningful effects on employee retention, and Musk is getting ahead of the curve.
