Dara Samuels discusses leading all types of volunteers, building teams and serving the next generation, balancing time for adult and student volunteers in the production booth, building relationships in ministry, expanding the team and creating opportunities for volunteers, dealing with turnover, transitions, and team dynamics, recognizing volunteer fit and strategic recruiting, and a conference invitation.
Building relationships and trust with coworkers and ministry partners is crucial for effective teams within the church.
Tailoring the approach to engage different groups of volunteers based on their commitment levels and availability.
Leadership transitions require building relationships, open communication, and being prepared to recruit and train new volunteers.
Deep dives
Building Effective Teams in the Church
Creating effective teams within the church is crucial for success and growth. Building relationships and trust with coworkers and ministry partners is just as important as technological skills. It is essential to lead and empower team members, helping them understand their value and purpose within the ministry. Developing strong leaders within the team and showing appreciation for their contributions fosters a positive culture and encourages loyalty. The turnover rate can be reduced by understanding seasonal changes and being prepared to recruit and train new volunteers. It is important to be intentional in building relationships with team members and establishing a culture of honor and respect. While the transition from being a member of the team to leading the team can be challenging, focusing on empowering and coaching team members allows for personal and professional growth. Trusting in God's guidance and finding identity in Him, rather than in titles or accomplishments, is crucial for effective leadership.
Engaging Different Groups of Volunteers
Engaging different groups of volunteers requires a tailored approach. Committed volunteers who are always present can be empowered and entrusted to carry the vision of the ministry. Their leadership skills can be developed so they can coach and train new volunteers. Those who are happy to help but have limited availability benefit from encouragement, training, and occasional special assignments that align with their interests. Volunteers who may be jaded or resistant to change should be valued and listened to. Engaging them by sharing stories of impact and helping them find new areas of interest can help reignite their passion. It is crucial to provide opportunities for all volunteers to contribute and feel valued, considering their availability and strengths.
Navigating Leadership Transitions
Leadership transitions can bring challenges and impact the team dynamics. When new leaders step in, building relationships with the existing team is crucial. Showing intentionality and getting to know the team members helps build trust and understanding. Strong leaders within the team can play a pivotal role in facilitating the transition and generating buy-in. Maintaining open communication and fostering a safe environment for team members to express concerns or questions is essential. Understand that turnover and adjustments may occur during transitions, and being prepared to recruit and train new volunteers ensures continuity and growth.
Balancing Intentionality and Grace
Finding a balance between intentionality and grace is important in leadership. Intentionality involves being present, engaging with team members, and providing necessary resources and training. Leaders must be intentional about building relationships, empowering volunteers, and focusing on the overall health of the team. Grace is essential in recognizing that leaders and volunteers may not always get things right and being forgiving and understanding in those moments. Leaders should extend grace by being available and showing support, even when time constraints limit in-depth conversations or actions.
Transitioning from Doing to Leading
Transitioning from being a hands-on doer to a leader can be challenging. Leaders must learn to delegate tasks and trust others to carry out responsibilities. Recognizing that leadership involves being a resource and supporter to the team, rather than solely focused on executing tasks, is crucial. Leaders must find their identity in Christ rather than in their accomplishments or titles. It is important to celebrate wins and growth within the team, while remembering that leadership is a continuous learning process.
Dara joins Todd to talk about leading all types of volunteers, from the super committed to the "my mom signed me up to serve" variety. Show Notes:FILO 2024: Are you starting to talk budget for next year? New things are coming with the schedule and breakouts for FILO 2024, so make sure you get that added into your 2024 budget! Learn more at filo.org/filo2024 and be sure to use code "podcast10" for 10% off your registration fee.Subscribe to the FILO Podcast: Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the FILO Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and be alerted any time we launch a new episode.Leave a review of the FILO Podcast: Your ratings and reviews help spread the word about the FILO Podcast to others. We'd appreciate your help! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.Have ideas for the FILO Podcast? Email your feedback, send us your topic ideas or names of people you think we should interview! filopodcast@filo.orgFILO Emails: The best way to stay in the loop with what FILO is up to, is to sign up to receive our emails.Follow FILO on Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
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