By Mike Klockenbrink
I’m Cindy, Jim’s administrative assistant. I’m responsible for making sure Pastor Jim’s meetings get scheduled, phone calls are made, meeting minutes get out to on time, following up with other ministries to make sure their on track with the upcoming program and the list goes on.
I know you know me. You tell on a regular basis that I’m doing a great job and what an asset I am to the team. But, do you really know me?
I’m a single mom struggling to make ends meet. I don’t want to bother you with all my problems; I know you’re really busy. I had to get food from the food shelter this past week and my son’s 4th grade teacher called and said that we need to meet.
Do you know me?
I’m Mark, director of adult ministries. Things have been a little crazy with the kickoff of the new men’s ministry and my small group’s coordinator out on maternity leave. But you know me, whatever it takes to get it done, I won’t let you down.
Thanks for the note and coffee gift card for a successful kick off. But, do you really know me?
My three teenage girls are starting to date and one is hanging around with the wrong crowd. My wife and I have tried everything, but our oldest daughter is making some very poor decisions. I’m afraid we might lose her.
Do you know me?
Can you hear it as you walk through the office? It may not be said out loud, but I guarantee you its being said. “He doesn’t even know me, the real me.”
So when a Cindy or Mark is not up to their normal level of high performance. Don’t assume they are just not doing their job. Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
When was the last time you asked one of your staff members what’s going on in their life? John chapter 10 tells the story of the Shepherd and His Flock. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.
When you invest in your most precious asset – people – your investment will pay off in the long run.
Mike Klockenbrink is chief of staff at Lakeside Church, Folsom, CA. www.lakesidechurch.com.
