Pivotal means being of crucial importance. It is not about shifting direction.
And in today’s uncertain world, creating stability is the only way to become pivotal.
Maybe you are too busy and don’t have time to read my 40,000-word book on this topic. But do you have 2 minutes to read a 400-word summary?
My friend, colleague, and client, Cinzia Amadio did a brilliant job of distilling the entire book into a concise post.
Enjoy!
💪🏻 Thriving in Uncertainty❓Be pivotal 🏀
The only certainty in life is … uncertainty.
So how do you create stability in an uncertain world?
Well, a very practical yet enlightening answer can be found in the latest book by Stephen Shapiro, “Pivotal”.
In a world driven by technological change and innovation at all costs (“pivot or perish”), Stephen’s voice, grounded in real-life business experience and a healthy dose of common sense (so rare these days!), offers a very good perspective.
There is a difference between pivot (“a complete change of the way in which one does something”) and being pivotal (“Important because other things depend on it”). Being pivotal “is about going deeper with customers to add more value in a way that makes you essential to them. You become irreplaceable”.
In this context, not all innovation is progress. The real game-changer is knowing when not to change. The key isn’t just about adapting to change but knowing where to stand firm, recognizing your business foundation built on deep customer insights, trust, and consistent value delivery.
And innovation should be pursued only when it truly differentiates you.
In business there are three levels of capabilities.
1️⃣ Support: Necessary for running the business but don’t create direct customer value.
2️⃣ Core: Essential for operations—if you get these wrong, customers might leave.
3️⃣ Differentiating: These set you apart from the competition and are the reason customers choose you.
To truly differentiate, your capabilities should align with the 5Ds of differentiation:
1️⃣ Distinctive: Sets you apart.
2️⃣ Desirable: Customers value it.
3️⃣ Durable: Hard to replicate.
4️⃣ Dynamic: Stays relevant over time.
5️⃣ Disseminated: Everyone in and outside your organization aligns with it.
To stay relevant in an ever-changing world, focus your effort on what truly drives impact and value. (Obvious, right? But are we really doing it? Some self-reflection is in order here…).
🗒 My personal takeaway? This approach isn’t just for businesses but for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference in their professional life.
(BONUS: Why Pivotal 🏀❓ : “Picture the basketball player executing a pivot. While one foot moves in circle on motion, the other remains anchored in the ground. The unsung hero is the foot that doesn’t move, providing the solid foundation and stability needed for effective pivot.”)