Every ministry that is worth its salt depends on a core group of people who are the engine for a healthy ministry. In this article, I will use “core group” and “team” interchangeably. These are the people who pray for, serve in, and give to the ministry. Most often, they’re volunteers. They are the strategic group that may comprise your staff or critical leadership. They are that group of individuals who become a team, moving ministry forward in a healthy way.

What makes for a healthy core of people driving your ministry? I think it comes down to two big things: a shared vision and good communication from the top as well as laterally among one another. With this in mind, what are the helpful steps that can help you connect with your team?

Step #1 – Set clear expectations:

There is nothing more frustrating than NOT having clarity in what is being asked of them. When vision and even goals are fuzzy at the top, they won’t be accomplished. In fact, your team will experience a “paralysis” of action, not knowing what to do. Be clear and simple in sharing vision, goals, and expectations. Define your preferred communication methods, what you expect regarding response times, and how to resolve issues.

Step #2 – Regular check-ins:

In the book Death by Meeting, Patrick Lencioni talks extensively about brief but regular check-ins with your team. Schedule frequent one-on-one meetings and team status updates to stay informed and address concerns promptly.

Step #3 – Active listening:

This may be one of the most important steps in connecting with your team. Encourage team members to fully focus on what others are saying, ask clarifying questions, and avoid interrupting.

Step #4 – Feedback culture:

Foster an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and given regularly, both positive and negative.

Step #5 – Utilize technology effectively:

Leverage project communication tools, communication platforms, and video conferencing to facilitate collaboration.

Step #6 – Communication training:

Provide workshops or training sessions to develop skills like public speaking, presentation, and conflict resolution.

Step #7 – Celebrate successes:

Nothing motivates better and faster than celebrating successes. Recognize and acknowledge individual and team achievements to boost morale and motivation.

In Conclusion

Connecting with your team requires intentionality and clear strategies that foster trust, clarity, and collaboration. By setting clear expectations, holding regular check-ins, actively listening, promoting a feedback culture, using technology effectively, providing communication training, and celebrating successes, you can create a healthy, thriving core group that moves your ministry forward. A well-connected team is the foundation for accomplishing your shared vision and achieving meaningful impact together.