Right Tool for the Right Job
posted 5/06/2005
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Several years ago, my wife and I reached an informal agreement. If I agree to tackle a significant household project, she agrees that I can purchase any necessary materials to get the job done. In other words, I can buy the right tool for the job. We both win because I enjoy hardware stores, and she has a source of free, very willing labor.
Want the bedroom painted? A new trim brush is all I need. Replace the bathroom floor? No problem, I've always wanted a tile cutter. A new front porch requires an air compressor and several pieces of hardware, so that project can wait. In order for our "agreement" to work, we need to realize that the size of the job will typically determine the size of the tool.
Let's carry this concept into ministry.
Volunteers come to us with a desire to know and be known by the people they work alongside. When we help these relationships form, we open the door for a spirit of unity that makes serving feel more like contributing to a family project than dutifully checking off chores. Intentional effort must be applied, though, because the busyness of ministry work can keep people so occupied that they never get to know each other. On the other hand, our ministry has found that placing people into formal small groups—which require them to come an hour early or stay after the kids have left—can dramatically increase the time required to volunteer. That works for some people, but is too large a move for others. We faced a question: What right-sized tool can we use that honors volunteers' time yet also helps build relationships?
Answer: Treat them like a V.I.P.
For 15 minutes before our ministry doors open to families, serving teams spend time in huddles led by a volunteer coach. During this time, the coach gives team members the V.I.P. treatment—one person's responsibility is to create a sense of belonging for all volunteers that he or she oversees. This simple tool contains three elements that value people's time and makes them feel valued.
V stands for vision. Every week, coaches thank their volunteers and remind them about the kingdom importance of their service. Examples of statements include: "Kids are going to really understand what it means to have a relationship with Jesus today, and it couldn't happen without you!" and "Life can be pretty tough for kids, so thanks for being here to show them God's love." Reminding people of the common vision they share will keep their enthusiasm high for ministry—and enthusiastic people tend to easily bond with one another.
I is for information. The coach reminds the team of critical teaching elements or communicates changes in the lesson plan that everyone will follow. He or she also makes other important ministry announcements—perhaps about upcoming training, special events, or church-wide activities. The few moments spent sharing information goes a long way toward eliminating confusion and maximizing the time volunteers invest in ministry—which they appreciate.
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