Church Staffing: Hiring for Success, Not Just Fit

When it comes to church staffing, we often hear phrases like, "He's a great guy, but he just wasn't a great fit." But what if the culture fit we heavily rely on is overshadowing the importance of hire's ability to get the job done? Today, we're taking a critical look at the assumptions around hiring for fit instead of competency – and how it could actually be harming long-term success within our churches.

Analyzing The Pattern in Church Staffing

The ambiguity around 'fit' often intimates that the church never defined what success looks like in that role. Put another way, 'they weren't a fit' sometimes masks the reality that we skirted around decisive conversations necessary for defining success and hired someone who blended in rather than someone who could bring transformation.

In place of actual word 'fit', churches are unknowingly opting for 'comfort.' We are attracted to the idea of hiring someone who looks like us, talks like us, and fits into the existing 'church culture.' However, this methodology can hamper the diversity of thoughts and missed opportunities to bring onboard incredible leaders who don't immediately blend in.

The Trap of Overvaluing "Chemistry" in Hiring

While chemistry is indeed important in a team dynamic, hiring solely for 'chemistry' or 'fit' can be a trap. It could result in an agreeable, harmonious staff who - unfortunately - lack the ability to execute effectively, thereby opening the door to stagnation in the church. To avoid this pitfall, we need to shift our priorities in the hiring process.

Prioritizing Competency over Comfort

By defining success before 'fit', we're setting a much clearer path for our hires. So first, clarify the desired outcomes, the responsibilities, and expectations. Then, evaluate both chemistry and competency. Stay open to candidates who might respectfully challenge your norms—these are often the ones that help teams mature and churches grow.

Just like hiring a worship leader merely because they can skillfully play acoustic guitar and not for their ability to lead, hiring for culture fit without considering competency can potentially wreak havoc in our churches.

Bottom Line: Value Competency & Redefine 'Fit'

Reflect on your past hires and what you meant when you said someone 'isn't a good fit.' Would you rather have someone who fits in perfectly or someone who can actually do the job you need them to do? In church staffing, competency is not a compromise for fit, but crucial for success.

If you're interested in an open discussion on this critical topic, listen to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode to learn more.