As evangelical church leaders, our staff hires often fit specific molds. We recruit the worship savant whose life revolves around music or the devoted youth pastor who breathes, sleeps, and eats youth ministry. However, this traditional approach to hiring may overlook a unique group of individuals who can bring balance and innovation to your team: Multi-potentialites.
Multi-potentialites, a term coined to represent those with diverse interests, talents, and potential paths. They're not specialists but rather adaptable and creative generalists who can fluidly increase their competencies in various fields. These gifted generalists thrive in ambiguity and can swiftly plug into different roles, making them an incredible asset to church staff.
Identifying multi-potentialites during the hiring process requires looking beyond the linear resume. Instead of waiting for fitting profiles, ask open-ended questions to spot these potential game-changers. For instance, asking about projects undertaken outside of a job description or roles they would create for themselves can reveal their versatile capabilities. You'll spot a multi-potentialite when you see them light up with enthusiasm toward creative freedom and problem-solving.
Successfully leading multi-potentialites calls for a shift in traditional leadership strategies. These individuals thrive on mission and flexibility, not micromanagement. Allow them to work across departments as they deem necessary, assigning them projects instead of rigid roles.
Affirm their value and celebrate their unique abilities for innovation and connectivity. Recognize that their strength lies in their broad perspective and in the diverse contributions they make – not in a narrow specialty.
Taken seriously, multi-potentialites can indeed be the secret sauce that ties together a diverse church staff, weaving across departments and roles to create a unified, cohesive team.
If this concept resonates with you, or if you can identify a multi-potentialite within your team, dive deeper by listening to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode here. It’s time we recognize these "jack-of-all-trades" for the value they bring and utilize their unrivaled potential in church leadership roles. They could be the missing piece in your church staff puzzle.