Despite Elon Musk Being a Notoriously Strict Boss, He Still Emphasizes Workplace Camaraderie: 'It’s Very Important to Like the People You Work With'

Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Tesla (TSLA), SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company, is known for his relentless pursuit of innovation and transformative ideas. Yet, amid the towering achievements and high-stakes ventures, Musk emphasizes a surprisingly human element of success: workplace relationships. As he once stated, “It’s very important to like the people you work with, otherwise life [and] your job is gonna be quite miserable.”

The Human Side of High-Stakes Innovation

This quote reflects Musk’s understanding that success isn’t just about technology, strategy, or vision—it’s also about the people behind the mission. Whether launching reusable rockets or building the world’s largest electric vehicle company, Musk has surrounded himself with highly skilled teams driven by shared goals and mutual respect.

At Tesla, Musk fosters a culture of collaboration, often working closely with engineers and factory workers. His hands-on leadership style demonstrates his belief in teamwork and the importance of a supportive work environment. For example, during Tesla’s infamous “production hell” while scaling the Model 3, Musk was not only involved in solving technical problems but also working alongside employees on the factory floor.

Similarly, SpaceX’s rapid progress in space exploration stems from its unique culture, where team members are encouraged to challenge ideas and work collaboratively. Musk has often highlighted the importance of hiring passionate individuals who align with the company’s mission, ensuring a strong team dynamic.

A Lesson for Entrepreneurs

For startups and entrepreneurs, Musk’s quote serves as a reminder that the people you work with can determine not only the success of your venture but also the quality of your experience. Founders often focus on skills and expertise when building teams, but Musk’s perspective emphasizes the importance of cultural fit and interpersonal chemistry.

Impact on Leadership and Productivity

Musk’s philosophy also highlights the role of leadership in fostering a positive workplace culture. Leaders who prioritize hiring compatible team members and nurturing strong relationships create an environment where employees are more motivated, productive, and resilient.

Conversely, neglecting this aspect can lead to friction, disengagement, and high turnover—factors that can derail even the most promising projects. Musk’s ability to maintain highly motivated teams at Tesla and SpaceX, despite grueling workloads and lofty ambitions, reflects the importance of his people-first approach.

A Universal Insight

Musk’s insight into workplace relationships extends beyond startups and tech giants. In any field, the quality of one’s interactions with coworkers profoundly affects job satisfaction and mental health. His statement is a reminder that life’s work should not just be about what you do but also about the people you share the journey with.

By prioritizing workplace harmony, Musk ensures that his teams are not only solving the world’s toughest challenges but also enjoying the process. It’s a principle that resonates with anyone striving for both professional success and personal fulfillment.