Linchpin

Outline

Linchpin (2010) argues that the era of simply following instructions at work is ending, and that the most valued people are those who become indispensable. Seth Godin describes linchpins as people who bring creativity, generosity, and emotional commitment to their work, solving problems no manual can. He encourages readers to overcome fear and share their unique contributions.

• The era of simply following instructions at work is ending, and obedient, replaceable workers are the ones who lose value.
• A linchpin is a person who becomes indispensable by solving problems that no manual or set of instructions can solve.
• Linchpins bring creativity, generosity, and emotional commitment to their work instead of only completing assigned tasks.
• Fear is the main obstacle to doing remarkable work, and overcoming it is what lets you share your unique contribution.
• Becoming irreplaceable means taking initiative and bold risks rather than waiting to be told what to do.

Seth Godin is an American entrepreneur, marketer, and bestselling author of more than twenty books on marketing, leadership, and change. He is known for his popular daily blog and for ideas such as permission marketing and tribes. His books include Purple Cow, Linchpin, Tribes, and This Is Marketing.