One of the reasons God wrestles with me is because we have a relationship. A relationship built over time, founded in trust, good intentions and love. I always find it amazing when a new boss or co-worker wants to point out my “opportunities” yet they have not taken the time to invest in a relationship with me first. What they don’t realize is they are just wasting their breath because I will not listen. In order to truly get the best from your staff you must invest in the small stuff before you can extract the big stuff. Like, do you know their spouses name, do you know what type of caffeine that ignites them in the morning, do you know their favorite lunch spot, do you know their hot buttons, do you know their favorite book and what about you, do they know these things about you? It is a risk you take, investing in your staff but I promise you it will be worth the little time it takes. I can look back over my career and the 5 women that were my direct reports are still my direct friends, even though we live states apart. I am still involved in their lives and they are in mine.
Let’s look at how Jesus got the best of his staff…
Extract and exploit the ideas of all team members
Jesus connected to his disciples first. Luke 8:24-9:6 talks about how Jesus always approached people to meet their needs before he asked them to follow or obey Him. As a team leader you are called to meet the needs of your teammates first so they are willing to listen to you.
Solve real problems quickly – Jesus was not slow to solve problems, he started the solution on his knees. He was also quick to clarify the priorities like in Luke 10:38-42 he knew as a leader he would first have to clarify to Martha the priorities of her activity. It is our job to solve our employee’s problems quickly and wisely. Know the priorities, know your team’s personalities, show them how to solve problems quickly but with wisdom.
What will you do today to get to know your team better? Will it be with an act of service for them or just a quick conversation?
Connecting with Jesus, Tammy