Staffing Strategies

Jay Hostetler

An enormous amount of staff transition is expected over the next decade. In fact, much has been a result of the pandemic in our country and this trend will continue for a variety of reasons.

Founding pastors reaching retirement age, boomers nearing the end of their ministry leadership, and younger leaders seeking new opportunities is creating “new look” church teams. As teams are created, what is the best strategy?

• Do you search for internal candidates or external candidates?
• Do you hire staff that will be suited for your pre-determined roles, or do you hire a person and let them create their most effective role?
• Do you hire with an eye on a person’s present competency or their possible potential?

Finding and placing team in the right spot can positively affect the future of your church’s team.

Right person, right spot is everybody’s goal. On a recent trip, my wife and I stayed at a hotel that offered breakfast as a part of the cost of the room. We have become accustomed to the usual moderate value of these breakfasts. On this particular stay, we were amazed by the quality of the food, but more amazed by the most remarkable staff host. We noticed she was interacting with each guest with energy and genuine interest. We stayed at this hotel for a couple of days and enjoyed watching her do her thing. She was the best customer service person we have ever encountered away from the front desk. She is the right person in the right place.

In my coaching practice, I have dialoged with pastors at all staff levels. I enjoy assisting in staff transitions. Team choices are critical in this time of major ministry shifts. Transition offers a great opportunity to evaluate. If you’re building (or rebuilding) a team, take the time to seek some advice and possibly even consider new ministry team models or new individual roles. Previous ministry paradigms or roles may not take your church forward. Consider your present team dynamics, how your team functions and how you hope to function better in the future.

I hope your team will be characterized by the best people in their best places. What transitions are you facing in the next 1-5 years?  Let’s talk!