Everyone is replaceable

The best career advice I've ever received.

If you haven't learned that everyone is replaceable, take note.

There comes a moment in your career - that humbling moment - when you get a friendly wake up call. A reality check that punches you in the gut so hard, you never forget it.

Mine came at the ripe old age of 24. I was running a Client Success team which I had tripled in size, managing out of three offices, one international. We were managing some of the largest Fortune 500 customers in the Financial and Energy industries. Our company was 'killing it' and I was stressing out. Finally one afternoon after a particularly bad day, I walked into my VP of Sales boss's office, sat down and said, "I need to make more money".

He smiled, saying "Ok, tell me why you think I should increase your salary." I came up with a list of qualified reasons that were fair enough, but the last thing I said was, "Besides, you'd be screwed without me."

I cringe recalling this as wow, what an overconfident little 'shit' I was. I can imagine how I would handle this from someone on my own team today… That said, this is one of the best moments of work advice I've ever received and have never forgotten. He said, "Max - I will consider your request and follow up with you, but let me just make sure that one thing is clear."

"Everyone is replaceable."

I said thank you and promptly walked out. When I got to my desk, I was so angry thinking 'how dare he', and other colorful thoughts. That night, however, as I began to replay the conversation, the anxiety began to set in. I started thinking of all the reasons I loved my job, loved my team, loved the company. I thought about my team of rock stars and who would happily step into my place if I walked out the door, and what a great learning experience it would be for them. In reality, of course the team and the company would be completely fine without me. What a wake up moment.

I am so grateful to have learned this early on, as it has shifted my perspective as both an employee as well as coaching others. The number of times I have heard someone say something similar ('This company needs me…I am too valuable…I can't be fired') has been surprisingly frequent. Explaining to others that they are indeed replaceable, and there's always someone willing and able to step in at the drop of a hat. It may not be a perfect transition, but it's doable, and it happens all the time. What a powerful conversation.

We've unfortunately lost touch, but Don, if you're out there, thank you.

What's the best work advice you've ever received? I'd love to hear your feedback. Comment below or email me at max@max-powers.com.

Experience is the most valuable tool - share it.