'Stop with the manifestos', OpenAI's former communications director says

Hannah Wong, former communications director at OpenAI, argues that technology executives should stop writing lengthy essays and start demonstrating how their products can benefit people. She made this point during a discussion about AI communications organized by Clipbook, a media intelligence platform. Wong contends that companies should focus more on showcasing their work and less on simply stating their intentions, suggesting that numerous manifestos fail to resonate with audiences.

She believes that too many industry professionals are releasing long essays, some of which she has read recently. Wong criticizes these manifestos for being aspirational but not grounded in reality, noting that executives often claim AI will benefit everyone, even as they lay off workers. She argues that mixed messages create a credibility gap and that many tech companies lack community organizers and influencers to build trust with a broader audience.

Wong contrasts Airbnb and Nvidia with other AI companies, praising Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky for his authentic storytelling and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s ability to articulate how AI can improve society. She emphasizes that effective communication involves "showing" rather than just "telling." Wong, who left OpenAI earlier this year, recalls CEO Sam Altman as authentic, approachable, and open to feedback from her communications team.