Meaning

“What is a linchpin?” you may ask. Google Dictionary defines it as “a person or thing vital to an enterprise or organization.”

A linchpin is part of a company’s knowledge base. She studies the fine print, goes the extra mile to learn her job, and seek to understand the market structure.

Obviously, staff and customers notice when she’s not there, and she is missed when she is away.

How to identify a linchpin

Now that you understand the term, are you a linchpin? See, a linchpin makes art— or remarkable work. For example, she

• Knows her company in and out—the strengths and weaknesses.

• Gets to know the masters, the troublemakers, and the game-changers. She knows who owns the power and who is wrecking the boat.

• Understands the clientele very well and positions herself by making strategic decisions based on the trends.

• Listens carefully and speaks last. But everyone wants to hear what a linchpin has to say. In fact, most colleagues are curious to know her thoughts on every issue, trend, or challenge.

Does this sound like you? If it does, you are a linchpin. Bravo! Keep being remarkable. If it doesn’t,  find yourself a coach that can help you become one— in your line of work.

Want to learn more about being a linchpin? Check these books out:

• Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin

• Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable by Seth Godin

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Have questions about how to be a linchpin?  Shoot the CBL Team an email and check out our book: Creating Winning Career Systems.