Reflect What You Expect

We’ve all heard it said before “inspect what you expect.” That leadership principal has rang true for me for many years in many situations. I cannot argue with that principal nor do I intend to. As a leader, we are to follow up on the tasks that we delegate to others to ensure that the task is being carried out as requested. I’ve always felt that there was another step to be taken, that simply 'inspecting' is not enough.

Without reflecting what you expect you could create a mindset that you’re “too good” to do what you’re asking your volunteers or staff to do. I believe that there is power in those that are under your leadership seeing that not only are you inspecting to ensure excellence, but that you’re reflecting the same excellence you ask of others in your own daily life. This mindset creates and breeds productivity. Managers inspect, leaders inspect AND reflect.

For example, when asking a volunteer to greet all of the parents with a smile, I don’t walk around with a sour look on my face. I am communicating that I’m not too important to do what I’ve asked others to do. There is also the reality that I will need people on my team who can do things that I am not gifted to do. In these situations, I am sure to communicate that I am asking them to do something because it is a weakness of mine. Some leaders try to hide their weaknesses. However, I believe that we lead through our strengths but connect through our weaknesses.


Tim

Valley Training

With the ever-changing culture of the world and maintaining a culturally relevant church, it is essential to keep everyone informed and updated on the way we do church. One of the best ways to be sure everyone is up to speed is by training up our leaders. The Bible says to train up leaders according to 2 Timothy 2:1-2. “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Here at Valley Family Church, we have Valley Training on the second Wednesday evening of every month. During Valley Training, we have the opportunity for all of our Leadership to spend some time with Pastors Jeff and Beth, where they can impart wisdom and vision with the group. From there, volunteers break off into their individual departments and gain insight and training that is more specific to their area of ministry. Valley Training also includes a time of eating and fellowship. When everyone is together moving in the same direction, work gets done for the Kingdom! At VFC we call that “Screaming Green.” We put our personal preferences aside to run with the vision of the house. Valley Trainings offer a great way to accomplish this task.

Shon