A Tribute to the Linchpin

In the book, Linchpin, Seth Godin describes the value of being indispensable in your work. If you are not remarkable at your job, then you are a disposable cog, easily replaced. You must be the Linchpin, a valuable, irreplaceable person who does more than just his/her "job." He/She has responsibilities that are vital to the organization. Pursue being a Linchpin by going above and beyond your job description and doing your work in a way that is unique, remarkable, and specific to you. In addition to job security, Linchpins earn more, enjoy their jobs, and are more fulfilled by their work.

Sounds great for employees, but they are not the only beneficiaries of this pursuit. In a great twist of irony, when individuals step up and decide to become Linchpins, organizations benefit as well. Jim Collins, in his book How the Mighty Fall, explains that an essential piece of building a great and enduring enterprise is self-managed and self-motivated people who accept and seek out increasingly more responsibilities. In other words, companies with teams of Linchpins will always beat companies with teams of disposable cogs. It is the ultimate Win-Win!

Seth Godin goes on to describe 7 ways people can become Linchpins within an organization:

1. Provide a unique interface between members of the organization
2. Delivering unique creativity
3. Managing a situation or organization of great complexity
4. Leading customers
5. Inspiring staff
6. Providing deep domain knowledge
7. Possessing a unique talent

Here a are a few questions for you to reflect on:

1. Which of these are you currently doing in your enterprise?
• If the answer is none, then you are in TROUBLE. If someone else can do your job just like you, then quit simply "doing your job" and start gaining some responsibilities.
2. Which of these are missing in your enterprise?
• There's your opening!! Fill it quick and become indispensable!!
3. Which of these can you grow in?
• Good News! You can have more than one. Gaining multiple responsibilities is best way to grow in your Linchpin-ness.