Cory Lebovitz

Leading a team might be one of the most exciting parts of ministry.  There is nothing quite like gathering a group of people, helping them to come together and work in coordination to fulfill a vision.  A group of people working together can accomplish more than we could ever imagine.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world…”– Margaret Mead

So what does it look like to lead a team?  If you find yourself in the pilot’s seat, what do you need to pay attention to so your team can soar?  While there are numerous things worthy of your time and attention as a leader, paying attention to all of it might be a bit like watching the instrumentation dashboard on a plane. While there are many things that could benefit from our attention as leaders, I would suggest that to lead a volunteer team well you must tend to 3 basic components.

Recruiting – Integration – Retention

• Recruiting – This is the skill of getting people on your team. It should not have to be said, but you must have people on the team for it to be a team. Recruiting is the lifeblood of any volunteer run organization.  Do you find yourself consistently inviting new people to join your team…or do you tend to circle back to the same 5-7 people every time there is a need?  Recruiting is all about establishing relationships and providing clear invitations. (Click to tweet)
• Integration – This is the skill of connecting people on your team. Integration is the bridge you build that helps disconnected people become connected.  It is all about systems and processes that help move people towards connection.  When people have an interest in joining your team do they tend to land on your team?  Integration is about having a premediated plan that offers speed and clarity to those interested in the team. (Click to tweet)
• Retention – This is the skill of keeping people on your team. Retention helps ensure that your team is made up of more than rookies.  We all feel pressure as leaders – is the pressure you feel from an increased scope of responsibility or a diminishing roster on your team?  If you want to keep people long term you have to help them see that their involvement on the team matters.  You have to ensure they feel valued as a part of the team.  Retention is about keeping a clear vision in front of the team and an environment of care within the team. (Click to tweet)

Now in any season you are likely to find one of those components needing attention on your team.  Recruiting, Integration and Retention are not tools you gain and then never tend to again.  They are skills which you must continue to hone over time.

On your team, which of these 3 components needs your time and attention today?