Dimon vs. Krishna: Clash Over Meeting Etiquette in Corporate World

At the Fortune Most Powerful Women summit in autumn 2025, Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan, emphasized the importance of undivided attention from attendees during meetings. He stated that if an iPad is present and someone appears to be checking notifications or emails, he will insist they close it immediately, as such behavior is 'simply disrespectful.'

IBM's CEO Arvind Krishna offered a contrasting perspective on meeting etiquette. He noted that for larger gatherings, technology can serve as a beneficial asset rather than a distraction, allowing participants to disseminate information efficiently.

Krishna emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum in smaller meetings, stating that it would be odd for a technology firm to discourage staff from using their devices in such settings. However, he added that if someone is engrossed in their phone during a compact meeting, he would suggest they return when they are engaged.

JPMorgan's strict return-to-office policy, which requires most employees to work five days a week, has been criticized by some as overly rigid. Dimon's frustration with distracted meetings coincides with his leadership of one of the most stringent return-to-office policies on Wall Street.