I visit my physician annually, or more often as needed. He checks the obvious including blood pressure, blood sugar, medications and specialist visits. Depending on his findings he’ll investigate some more. I value his advice and direction.

Leaders also need an annual checkup. There are some obvious things to check. Are the annual goals of the organization being met in a timely manner? Are staff and volunteers being supervised and encouraged appropriately? Is the annual budget in line with the forecast? Are days off, holidays and break times taken appropriately? What books and training opportunities have staff participated in? Is the overall health and productivity of the work unit improving?

If the obvious questions are out of balance, the effective leader will probe more deeply. The goal is never to hurt or criticize, but to encourage and support.

The first step to a positive review is continual self-analysis. Review these questions regularly. Then, when your Board Chair or Annual Review committee comes knocking, you are prepared. One of the first rules on an annual review is that there shouldn’t be any surprises. You should know your work and performance measures so well that you are current and exceeding your goals.

“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God,which he bought with his own blood.”(Acts 20:28 NIV)“God is searching for leaders who have the courage to look deeply into their souls and identify areas of danger. He is also longing for leaders to be honest when they have crossed lines and become comfortable living with hidden sin” (Harney, 2007)

Yours in Service,

Laurie D. Kennedy

Author

Leadership Is … Devotions for Servant Leaders

Leadership Is … Serving with Integrity

www.jethrogroup.ca

Leadership Is: Devotions for Servant Leaders by [Laurie Kennedy]
Leadership Is... Serving with Integrity by [Laurie  Kennedy]