We need a great mission. Our team needs goals. And we need to do the work.
But it seems the leadership environment we create either caps growth or accelerates it. So how then can we create a healthy leadership culture that fuels enthusiastic growth? How can we take our people beyond compliance and move them to become passionate contributors?
I’m still learning. I’m not only learning what to do but how to do it consistently. But here are a few priorities as I work to build a healthy leadership culture.
Chart the course with consistency.
Understand where you’re going and speak about it regularly.
Communicate for the unfamiliar.
Assume people do not know what you’re talking about. Over communicate vision, values, plans and processes. You may not understand everything, but be clear about what you do understand.
Create creatives.
Unity is essential. Uniformity not so much. Leaders who expect everyone to do things the way they do them builds an oppressive culture. So develop a team of creatives…people who read, learn, grow, innovate, and take risks. Expect things to change. Last year’s victory doesn’t have to determine this year’s vision.
Clear relational barriers.
Personalities create different levels of chemistry, but do your part to remove any offenses or deal with any unhealthy attitudes.
Connect on multiple levels.
Go beyond a working relationship and build friendships with your team. Get to know them outside of their duties. Share meals, celebrate graduations and birthdays, and reach out personally. And stay connected through social media, small group communities, and service projects.
Care for each other uniquely.
Your team members are carrying a unique load of responsibilities and pressures that go beyond their work. So meet them where they are with genuine care.
Coach up privately. Cheer on publicly.
Correction is necessary and expected, but do it in a way that shows respect and appreciation. And always support team members with the critics.
Complete assignments with excellence.
We communicate value in how we do our work. So go beyond expectations and beyond minimum requirements of the assignment.
Celebrate.
Have fun. Make fun. Laugh as much as you can. And genuinely appreciate what team members contribute to the mission. The work is hard and the costs are high, but laughter is good medicine.
Cast a vision of expectancy.
Pray and plan for future growth of the ministry. And while we celebrate the past, communicate often what will be more than what has been.
This is a work in progress for me, so please share your insights on creating a healthy leadership culture. Click the “Comment” button below and type away.
