Key in the lock

The pin-tumbler lock is an engineering marvel dating back to President Lincoln’s time, and one that’s still in wide use today. The basic idea: the ridges in the key move the pins into place. If the pins are all aligned, the key can turn and the lock will open.

Plenty of keys will slide into that lock. But it takes a very specific cut to open it. And sometimes a key stops working, because it wasn’t cut well or because dust is getting in the way inside the lock.

In leadership, you’ve probably slid that key into the lock hundreds of times. You’ve turned it without thinking about it. Then, one day, it sticks.

A new boss, a reorganization or even a different strategic plan can scramble the pins or deposit some gunk inside.

It’s uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be nasty or personal. Sometimes the key just doesn’t open the lock anymore. The fit with a leader, or an organization, is a very individual thing. What works for others may not work for everyone, so it’s possible you’re no longer working in an environment that suits you.

How to minimize discomfort and keep your career on track? Notice the friction. If it used to be easy to have certain conversations or to make certain moves, is it now more difficult?

If you’ve blown away the dust, lubricated the lock and tried a different key, and the tumbler still won’t turn, perhaps someone has changed the lock without telling you. Then it’s about time to find a door you can actually open again.

Coaching prompts:

• In what ways are you able to adapt to changing circumstances around you at work?

• What sorts of changes make you uncomfortable, and why?