I'm asked all the time by pastors across this nation, "What do you look for in a potential staff member?" Well, here are some things I consider:
1. DO THEY HAVE THE HEARTBEAT OF THE HOUSE?
Have they BOUGHT into the vision of the house or are they using the house to fulfill their own vision. Are they looking for a POSITION? Are they looking for a PAYCHECK? You can fill ANY position with a "staff member", but if you can fill it with a "SON"...you'll be miles ahead and save yourself a lot of headaches.
2. DO THEY SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE YOU DO?
Are they speaking the "family language" or their own "individual language"? Son's will say "we, us & ours", but hirelings will say "mine, my & me." Pay close attention to the way they speak. Son's will promote their fathers and their house...not themselves or their own "team". Sons will introduce their family & friends UPWARD, not INWARD.
3. DO THEY PROMOTE THEMSELVES OR THE WHOLE?
Are they generous with their compliments and kudos, or do they hoard to themselves recognition? Are they concerned with being seen? Do they speak about EVERYONE with joy, or do they only congratulate themselves?
4. ARE THEY OPEN TO INSTRUCTION?
The true test of a son is if they will stay with you after correction. If they 'buck up" when corrected or cannot receive from delegated authority...they are NOT A SON, and they will cause division once they feel they've gained enough "relationships" with others.
5. ARE THEY A HARD WORKER?
You don't need any loafers on your team! If they're a volunteer before you hire them...then you'll already know their patterns. Watch how they work with YOU and with OTHERS. Do they complain about the work? Are they always dropping hints about how tired they are and when is quitting time? Believe me, if you hire them...they'll probably be the last to show up and the first to leave...AND always calling off! (Lord have mercy...lol) Anyone you hire should OUT WORK you!
That's five PRACTICAL things...obviously there are SPIRITUAL things I consider...more to come!
