This week’s Resource Recommendation – Linchpin – Are You Indispensable? By Seth Godin.
Seth Godin has written a ton of good books. Many have been about marketing related topics, more recently he has written on personal and professional development. This book extends some of his previous work in some ways, yet I find it hard to categorize.
The book, as of this writing, is in the Amazon top 100 in two categories – Job Hunting and Careers and Self-Help/Success. It also could be categorized as a leadership book, a marketing book and more.
In part Seth is trying to describe a shift in the work of the world, how it is valued and what will make you most successful. In part he is trying to convince you in a quite personal way how remarkable you can be, and in part he is giving you suggestions and ideas to help you move in that direction.
His points are made with stories, research and simple examples. He challenges you to think; he asks tough questions.
I particularly like the chapter on Resistance. I feel it is worth the investment in the book in and of itself. I know I will read it again (likely before you read these words).
Seth’s writing style is easy and fun to read, and if you are a fan of his you will definitely want this book. If you haven’t read Seth before (you can always start at his blog), pick this book if the topic and my comments resonate with you or any of his other good work.
This isn’t his shortest book, and depending on your perspective, may not his best, but it provides valuable insights and challenges you to think about your career, your talents, your choices and yourself in new ways.
Kevin
I’m just finishing Linchpin. It has really challenged me, and given me a degree of optimism about the future. I think that it’s a book that both merits and demands re-reading, and it is definitely one that I will be recommending widely.
I agree. It is my book of the year and has changed my view on a lot of things.
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Hi Kevin:
I have a bit of a different take on “Linchpin” which you might find of interest. While mostly a fan of Seth’s work, I view the concept of being indispensable as bad business theology. Here’s why: http://www.n2growth.com/blog/indispensable-i-think-not
Mike – I appreciate your thoughts – and “indispensable” itself is a very verrry slippery slope, taken to the literal ending.
Thanks as always for your wisdom.
Kevin 🙂