This post is part of the VISION week of Blog Posting at Word of Life. Check out Mike Calhoun’s Post.
There have been some classic rivalries in history: David v. Goliath, North v. South, USA v. Russia (hockey), and Youth Pastors v. Deacon/Elder Board. I’m probably drawing a few snickers, but seriously…. it can be difficult to interact with a board. This isn’t isolated to just youth pastors. CEO’s, presidents and various other leaders have had their infamous clashes with boards. But in youth ministry, a clash with your board can be detrimental: for you, for your ministry, for the church and for the students. So how do you avoid it?
Communication
Duh, everyone knows that. Communication is Key. However, as a guy who has personally stood before a board of elders and tried desperately to communicate my vision, I know it’s a lot easier said than done. Here are a few key things I’ve learned about communicating with a board.
Be Professional
A lot of times, the guys who make up the church board are guys who are leaders in the church, leaders in ministry and/or leaders in business. They expect a certain level of professionalism. This means that when you communicate to them, you have to have done your homework. You need to really understand what you are saying and be able to articulate clearly. A lot of time, some extra work on some visuals or handouts goes a long way in helping them understand. It also goes a long way in lending credit to your character as a professional, put-together leader within the church.
Be Accountable
You have to live an open book and you have to be honest and up front about mistakes you make. Remember to be teachable. A lot of times we say others don’t make the effort to understand us, but in reality, we need to make the effort to understand them first. Living in this transparent way will build trust which opens the door for clear communication.
Be a Teacher
This might seem out of place, but think about it with me. Just because a person is spewing forth information in a class room, does not mean he is teaching. He is not teaching unless students are applying the knowledge. It’s the same here. Don’t expect the board to just “get it” when you communicate. Many times they won’t. Be willing to teach them what you mean. This might involve asking them to join you as observers at the next youth event. Or, it might mean bringing one member along with you as you sit with a student in a discipleship session. It’s been said that passion has to be caught. As you bring them along and teach them what you mean, the board will catch your vision.
These are some pretty simple things I’ve learned about communicating to a board. What works for you? What are some lessons you’ve learned. Share them in the comments.
