What Volunteers Are Looking For In A Leader

Here’s what I know about Americans give them a cause and a hero and they’ll rally around them both. As a Children’s Ministry Leader you have a cause. And guess what? Jesus wants to use you to be the hero. You not a true leader if no one is following. I believe there are seven things volunteers are looking for in a leader.

1. People are looking for a leader with vision. People want to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Have you ever noticed losing teams don’t sell much merchandise. But everyone wants to identify with a winner. When you show up with a God inspired vision people will hook up and run with it.

2. People want a leader who possesses strength. 2Timothy 2:1 says “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” What this is telling us is that we can be confident in our calling as a children’s ministry leader. God equipts those He calls. We must possess the strength Jesus gives. Remember you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!

3. People want a leader with a plan. If a general has a battle plan and a successful coach has a game plan why do we in children’s ministry think we can succeed without a plan?

4. People want excellence. Only 38% of parents in America say clergy are doing an “excellent” or “good” job. That tells me 62% of parents think excellence is missing.

5. Volunteers want to be informed. Communication is a must. Hosea 4:6 tells us “My people perish for lack of knowledge.” Do your helpers know your vision, purpose, plan & structure? Communication is hard work it doesn’t happen on it’s on. I use brochures, newsletters, calendars, meetings, e-mail, and websites , just to name a few.

6. People want to be a part of a real move of God. Half of all Adults in America agree that “most churches are more interested in raising money than helping people.” One of the most asked questions I hear is “How do you get parents to not think of your ministry as baby sitting?” That’s simple, Don’t baby sit. Are kids getting saved. Are they lovers of the Word? Do they live what they learn? Don’t play church, have church!

7. People want a leader who doesn’t rely on past accomplishments but still leads. An up to-date leader points others to their next level.

What have you done for your volunteers lately. Keep pointing the way, setting the pace and be the leader others want to follow.