Flashy Resumes: Digging Deeper for a Healthy Church Staff

When hiring for your church staff, you might encounter some resumes with big names - former staff members from prominent churches like Saddleback, Elevation Church, or North Point. It's easy to get drawn in by these impressive resumes, but it's crucial to remember that big-name churches on resumes do not always equate to a healthy church staff culture.

The Myth of "The Calling Card Resume”

The presence of prestigious church names on a candidate's resume can give an illusion of guaranteed competence and success. But remember — proximity to greatness does not automatically indicate personal effectiveness or health.

For instance, the individual may have been part of a huge team at a mega-church, operating in a narrow, specialized field instead of broader core ministry roles. They might excel in such an environment but may struggle in a smaller church with fewer resources and different expectations.

The Hidden Realities Behind Flashy Resumes

It's essential to recognize that flashy resumes can sometimes gloss over red flags. Unhealthy patterns might have been concealed within the massive team structures of larger churches. In some instances, seemingly impressive church staff roles might have been peripheral or even volunteer positions.

Looking Beyond the Flash & Flare

Hiring decisions should be based on comprehensive assessments of a potential hire's adaptability, character, and emotional intelligence. When reviewing applications, be sure to:

• Understand their past role's specifics: What did they actually build and do in their last role?
• Assess their adaptability: Can they thrive in your church's context without the same resources and recognition?
• Investigate their response to challenges: How do they cope with failure or transition?

Instead of getting star-struck by a dazzling resume, make thoughtful inquiries to assess the applicant's real value to your church staff.

Bottom Line

A big-name church on a resume might be an excellent conversation starter, but it should not blind you to uncover what truly matters for the health of your church staff. Always dig deeper, ask tough questions, and focus on discerning character fit over the glare of impressive job titles.

For more insights into this topic, tune in to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode. I delve further into the topic of flashy resumes and share thought-provoking insights on building a healthy church staff.