Identifying and Preparing Future Leaders in Church Staff
Succession planning and fostering growth are integral to any organization, including in the ministries. The vitality and longevity of church staff strongly rely on identifying and preparing future leaders. Today's post focuses on how to discern potential leaders within your community and increase their leadership skills.
Spotting Potential in Current Roles
Often, promising leaders are already a part of our teams. With passion, dedication, and the ability to inspire others, these individuals may currently serve in volunteer positions but are ripe for more prominent roles. Keep an eye on who shows responsibility and a dedicated spirit even in seemingly menial roles and consider them for higher positions.
Look beyond the Usual Suspects
Leadership isn't reserved for the extroverts or Type A personalities. Within many church staffs lie introverted, behind-the-scenes individuals who demonstrate commitment, care, and potential. Don't allow the stereotypes of leadership to limit your search for future leaders.
Who are Others Drawn to?
Take note of who congregants turn to for advice or spiritual guidance. These informal mentors could be showcasing leadership qualities worth exploring and harnessing for the benefit of the church.
Who Steps Up during a Crisis?
Periods of crisis or change reveal character and abilities. Those who step up to the plate during challenging times demonstrate resilience, leadership skills, and the ability to handle pressure.
Use Your 'Farm System'
Consider the small groups within your church as potential talent pools. Encourage group leaders to recognize and cultivate future leaders within their groups, providing opportunities for these individuals to shine and develop further.
Look for Spiritual Maturity
When identifying future leaders, measure their spiritual maturity through the fruit they exhibit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Who is a High Capacity Leader in the Marketplace?
Look for congregants who excel in their careers. Their existing leadership skills and specialized knowledge could translate incredibly well into a church context, providing added value to your team.
Once future leaders are identified, it's imperative to foster their growth and prepare them for future roles. Providing opportunities to showcase their skills, supporting their growth through mentoring, and empowering them to lead are all part of cultivating their potential.
For deeper insights on how to identify and prepare future leaders within your church staff, listen to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode. Remember, identifying and preparing your future leaders is an essential strategy to ensure the longevity and vitality of your church.
