How do you view your team? If you were to give your team members a grade, what grade would they receive? For this conversation, let’s assume no one on your team is “failing.”
In most churches, team members typically fall into three categories: A, B, and C employees.
A Employees
These are your rock stars. They are deeply committed to the mission of the church, have great team chemistry, work hard, and see fruit in their ministries. They are the ones everyone loves serving alongside.
If an A employee ever considers leaving, you do everything you can to keep them because they’re nearly impossible to replace. These are the kind of leaders you want around for the long haul.
B Employees
They’re not failing, but they’re not flourishing either. They show effort, and they may even contribute here and there, but their results are inconsistent. They bring some value, but not enough to be a long-term cornerstone.
If a B employee were to resign, you’d feel at peace because you know you can find someone of equal or greater value to step into the role.
C Employees
These are the people who do just enough to get by. Their lack of drive disrupts team chemistry and keeps your church from moving forward. Everyone knows they won’t be around long-term, even if it isn’t said out loud.
When a C employee resigns, you might not admit it publicly, but inwardly, you’re relieved.
Your Role as Executive Pastor:
Here’s my encouragement to you:
- Protect your A’s. Take good care of them, invest in them, and make sure they know they are valued. You can’t afford to lose them.
- Develop your B’s. Do everything you can to help them become A’s. That may mean coaching, training, reading books together, or attending a conference as a team.
- Pray over your C’s. Ask the Lord to move them off the team in His timing. In my experience, it’s best when they choose to transition on their own rather than you having to release them.
Next month, I’ll share some practical options for how to handle problem employees. Until then, let’s keep leading faithfully.
