I consistently focus my leadership activities within a four-point framework. Each new contract, every new client and all organizational reviews follow a similar pattern. Each will feel different and unique from the client’s perspective but the focus and format are similar.
The format is simple yet produces profound results. First, determine what matters, second, communicate what matters, third, measure what matters and then finally reinforce and celebrate what matters.
Determine what matters: As a Pastor and Board, what matters in your church? Are you concerned about building a stronger relationship to Christ? Are you working to involve more active volunteers? Are you working to increase your involvement and service to your community? Are you building relationships with more missionaries? Are you currently concerned about a financial issue or maybe a building program?
Communicate what matters: My real estate friends tell me their most important three words are, location, location, location. In any organizational change activity your three key words are, communicate, communicate, and communicate. If it is only your leaders who know what matters, you are working alone. However, if all your members, people who attend, and those who have an interest are involved, then you have a team working together.
Measure what matters: Change is a moving target. You cannot lead an organization over the long run without monitoring performance. Whatever you measure, tends to get done.
Reinforce and celebrate what matters: Striving toward a distant goal can seem long and tiring. The effective Servant Leader will reinforce the team encouraging their great work. Note Moses, “We will go with our young and our old, with our sons and our daughters, and with our flocks and herds, because we are to celebrate a festival to the Lord.” (Exodus 10:9 NIV)
As you and your church pray through these four points, you’ll do a much better job in accomplishing your God given goals.
Leadership is… accomplishing God’s plan.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group