I’ve been a fan of Seth Godin ever since I read my first book, Tribes back in mid-2009. That book inspired me to stop being a sheep-walker 
and instead, be a leader so I started Unemployed in Des Moines and later that year, my own business.
That’s why I was excited to read Linchpin. Godin always moves me to take action.
A linchpin, as Seth describes it, is somebody in an organization who is indispensable, who cannot be replaced—her role is just far too unique and valuable. And then he goes on to say, well, seriously folks, you need to be one of these people, you really do. To not be one is economic and career suicide.
Your work needs to be emotional; you are, after all, an artist now. Put your heart and soul into what you do. Actually care about the work you do and who you do that work with. The people who drag themselves to work to sit in their cubicle to do the least amount possible are dispensable and they will be the first ones let go when the time comes…and the last ones hired when positions become available.
There are no more great jobs where someone tells you what to do. You actually need to think, take initiative, make things happen…If you continue to position yourself and your skills as a commodity, a prospective employer will view you as such and treat you as a commodity. Who wants to be a commodity? That’s no fun! Stand out; do emotional work; make a difference.
What’s your favorite book by Seth Godin?
