Imagine this scenario. You place a rockstar candidate at a leading electric vehicle company, only to have them call you a week later, bewildered, because their entire 500-person division just got the axe. That’s the kind of whiplash effect Elon Musk’s leadership style can have. Here’s what happened.
In a move that defied logic, Musk fired the entire Tesla Supercharger team – all the brilliant minds behind the company’s fast-charging network. This came after their leader, Rebecca Tinucci, met with Musk to discuss the division’s future. Tinucci had already proactively reduced her team by 15-20% to streamline operations. Apparently, that wasn’t enough for Musk. When she pushed back on further cuts, fearing it would undermine the network’s core functionality, she and her entire team were shown the door.
But wait, there’s more! Just weeks later, Musk did an about-face, publicly announcing a whopping $500 million investment to expand the very Supercharger network he’d seemingly deemed expendable. So, what gives?
This is Elon Musk. A leader known for audacious decisions, lightning-fast pivots, and a “throw it at the wall and see what sticks” approach. It’s a management style that can leave employees and external partners alike feeling like they’re on a never-ending rollercoaster ride.
For recruiters, this presents a fascinating challenge. How do we place top talent in an environment known for such volatility? Remember, some people will love this type of uncertainty. When you have a difficult opportunity to present, consider the following:
- Focus on the Agile: Look for candidates who thrive in uncertainty and can adapt quickly to changing priorities.
- Passion over Pedigree: While a strong track record is important, prioritize candidates who are genuinely passionate about the company’s mission and excited by the potential for disruption.
- Transparency is King: Be upfront with candidates about the company culture. Don’t sugarcoat the challenges, but emphasize the opportunities for innovation and rapid growth.
Remember, the world’s best talent craves not just stability, but the chance to make a real impact. For those who embrace the chaos, a company like Tesla under Musk can be a breeding ground for groundbreaking ideas. So, the next time a candidate expresses hesitation about your client, reconize it’s not a good culture fit and move on. But not from the client, only from the candidate. Don’t shy away from the hard clients. They can be full of gold with the right positioning and spin.
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Tricia Tamkin, headhunter, advisor, coach, and gladiator. Tricia has spoken at over 50 recruiting events, been quoted in multiple national publications, and her name is often dropped in groups as the solution to any recruiters’ challenges. She brings over 30 years of deep recruiting experience and offers counsel in a way which is perspective changing and entertaining.