Knowing what you should do as a leader in normal times is hard enough. As you may have noticed, these aren’t normal times. Trying to figure out what to do in the midst of a global crisis is so much more complicated. So how do you cut through the mess and noise to chart a
In a survey reported in Forbes magazine, staff members and subordinates were asked what they wished their boss would do better. The number one answer by far: “Communicate with me.” Here’s the funny thing, I bet those leaders are communicating with their team members. They just aren’t talking about the right things. If you lead
The concept of the campus pastor is a genius kind of idea. For more than a decade, the roles and responsibilities of a campus pastor have been innovated by hundreds of leading multi-site churches. Campus pastors, while many are very capable communicators, they focus more on leadership and shepherding than on teaching and preaching. The
Not only has the coronavirus pandemic radically changed the world, but it’s also radically changed how churches operate and function. Even has some places around the country have or are about to slowly ease some restrictions, churches will be facing a new reality. How will churches function in whatever new normal lies ahead? To that
Someone once asked me, “Jonathan, we’re looking for a new youth pastor. What would you look for in a youth pastor?” What would you say? Good speaker? Kids like them? Organized? (Those are the ones I hear from people frequently.) To be honest (see what I did there?), none of those three above make my top
As staff recruiting in ministry world continues to evolve and become more competitive and sophisticated in recent years, churches and recruiting firms have developed a keen sense of red flags during the recruiting process that relate to whether a candidate is a good fit for your church or not. Those red flags may be a
It is January again. It is time for New Year resolutions and meticulous planning. Or at least that is what we used to do. Way back in January 2020, none of us had any idea what the year held. As we begin 2021, how do we make plans for our children’s and student ministries? Calendar the
This has been a frustrating year in leadership. 2020 has been challenging for all of us. It has been especially challenging for leaders trying to navigate their organizations through it. That includes pastors and the church. Yet, as I reflect on some of the decisions I have personally had to make this year, I realize some things
Did 2020 cause you to stop dreaming, to stop thinking big? It has for many. It’s why a setback can be a big opportunity. While many have stopped dreaming, you still can. It’s why we’re encouraging every pastor to re-engage with thinking big and envisioning what could be in 2021. That’s what followers of Jesus
While you’re probably amazed you’ve (almost) survived 2020 as a leader, if you’re thinking ahead like most leaders, you realize 2021 is just around the corner. How on earth do you plan in an environment like this? While no one knows the future, that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare. And while I have no greater
