We instinctively know that first impressions are important. We know that the way we present ourselves on a first date, during a job interview, and the first time that someone visits our church is important... and is a leading factor in determining whether the relationship continues.
It works the same way when we are looking to hire a new staff member at our church. When we are excited about someone, we are quick to respond to emails and phone calls, we make sure that they get the best experience possible when they come out for the candidate weekend, and we all celebrate when an offer is made and accepted. But what happens next?
Several years ago, I remember walking into the office of a church for my first official day on the job. I didn't know that my first day coincided with my boss's day off and much of the staff seemed surprised to see me. I also remember walking into what was to be my new office, only to surprise the former occupant, who was just beginning to move their stuff. Needless to say, it wasn't a very warm welcome.
One of the biggest mistakes that churches make when bringing a staff member on their team is to assume that the search is done when the offer is accepted. It is common to think that the goal of a search is make a hire... this is not the case. The true goal of a church's search process is to fully incorporate a new teammate into the life of the church.
When we work with churches we encourage them to intentionally think through what happens after a hire is made. Savvy churches understand that job changes, moves, and saying good-bye to friends and co-workers is incredibly stressful, and proactively plan for this. They make sure that their new teammate feels as though they were expected, cared for, and informed through this season.
To help churches think through how to better care for new teammates in the midst of this transition, we've put together Chemistry Staffing's Onboarding Playbook. This guide will help you think through your onboarding processes and give you a customizable checklist to use when someone joins your team. We'd love for you to use this next time someone joins your team, and let us know what you think.
P.S. Are you looking to find someone to use the Onboarding Playbook with? I'd love to help you find your next staff member. Click here to have a conversation.