No, I’m still not finished with Linchpin either. And no, it’s not that it’s too difficult or too long, we’re actually that busy. We hoped to have the book read, the blogs written and the conversation wrapped up nicely before Linchpin comes out tomorrow, but that obviously hasn’t happened. But in this economy, I’m happy to be too busy to blog, and I think Seth would be proud of that, too.
Now, on to the book…
In response to Jonathan’s final question, “Can a company be a Linchpin?”, I have to say, yes. Obviously not every company can be one, and most companies aren’t, but I do think it’s possible.
I just finished reading the section on “Artists Who Can’t Draw” and there are some great parts that relate to this. And, interestingly enough, Seth’s blog post today is on the same subject.
In the book, Godin says “Art isn’t only a painting. Art is anything that’s creative, passionate, and personal. Great art resonates with the viewer, not only with the creator.”
I think that’s important for us as a creative agency. I’d love to think that everything we do is art, that we’re creating things that resonate with our clients and ourselves, but also for the audience. That’s the real goal of what we do, right?
He says, “Art is a personal gift that changes the recipient.” And that’s what we’re hoping to do. To change the viewer, to motivate them, to convince them to take action. We just have to show our clients that what we’re creating is art, get them on board with creating something for their customers, not just “putting something out there” or telling people why you are better. We’re creating something for the customer, the guest, the community, the world.
Wouldn’t it be a wonderful job if all we did was create art with our clients? I think that’s how a company can become a linchpin. If we can get people to join us in the belief that we’re creating something special together art, if we can convince them that it’s a gift to their audience (even if it’s being sold), if we can show them who we’re creating it for, and why that matters, I think everyone will be more successful.
Here’s to staying busy, and hopefully finishing Linchpin soon!