In 2025, corporate leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are targeting low performers with significant layoffs, aiming to create a culture of accountability. However, research shows that such strategies often backfire, leading to detrimental effects such as low morale, high turnover, and reduced innovation. Experts like Adam Grant warn that while short-term performance pressures may seem effective, they can damage long-term organizational health. The collective intent to push accountability through fear is likely a shortsighted strategy that may harm businesses more than help them.
They're trying to create more accountability. They're worried that people are a little too comfortable and complacent. They're hoping that some people will even opt out.
In the short run, you might be creating some heightened performance standards and some accountability. In the long run, you may be shooting your organization in the foot.
Aggressive efforts to raise the bar on performance, as Zuckerberg put it, tend to backfire with remarkable consistency.
The evidence on making employees fear for their jobs is clear: They're very shortsighted decisions.
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