How Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Pushes Employees to Excellence
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is renowned for his relentless drive to help employees achieve their full potential, even if it means pushing them to their limits.
“I’d rather ‘torture’ you to greatness because I believe in you,” Huang stated in a recent conversation with Stripe CEO Patrick Collison. While the comment was made in a joking tone, Huang emphasized his belief in the transformative power of mentorship and persistence. “Coaches who truly believe in their team will push their students to excel,” he added.
A Demanding Work Environment
Huang’s philosophy reflects the intense work culture at Nvidia, as described by current and former employees in a Bloomberg interview. The fast-paced environment often includes long hours and high-pressure situations.
One former employee shared that their typical work week extended to seven days, often ending at 1–2 a.m., with some colleagues working even later. Another employee described the office atmosphere as a “boilerplate” environment with frequent arguments and stress-inducing meetings—up to 10 in a single day.
Retention Amid Pressure
Despite these challenges, Nvidia boasts an exceptionally low turnover rate of 2.7%, compared to the semiconductor industry’s average of 17.7%, according to the company’s 2023 Sustainability Report. This high retention is attributed to competitive compensation packages, including the opportunity to purchase company stock at a 15% discount and stock grants, commonly referred to as “Jensen grants.”
Employees often feel a strong sense of commitment to meeting Huang’s demanding standards. “They’re usually very close to the goals I set,” Huang said. “Can you imagine giving up when you’re so close? I don’t want you to give up, so I keep pushing you.”
Leading by Example
Huang’s work ethic is legendary. At 61, he continues to dedicate himself fully to Nvidia, often working from morning until night. In a Stripe Sessions event, he revealed, “I work as much as I can. Work is a wonderful thing.”
Even leisure activities like watching movies can’t pull his focus away from work. “I can’t remember anything after watching a movie because I’m thinking about work,” he admitted.
In an interview with 60 Minutes, Huang described himself as “demanding, perfectionist, and not easy to work with.” His drive to take on increasingly challenging tasks underscores his commitment to pushing boundaries, both for himself and his team.
The Price of Excellence
While Nvidia’s culture may not be for everyone, it has undoubtedly contributed to the company’s remarkable success. Employees endure the pressure not just for the financial rewards but also for the chance to be part of something extraordinary.
Huang’s approach may be intense, but it’s rooted in a belief that greatness is within reach—with the right amount of persistence and the occasional “torture.”
