We are not a very formal organization at Grace Community Church. As our church and staff have grown, however, we have recognized the need for more structure. I wrote about that fact HERE and HERE. I try to keep an open door policy of leadership and frequently ask for input and try to provide feedback. I realize, however, that communication is one of the areas I continually need to improve upon, especially as our church grows larger.

In December, I introduced a more formal evaluation process for the people that report to me. My intent was not to fill out an official form for a company record. I understand the need for that at times, especially in disciplinary actions, but currently our staff is functioning well. We are working hard, practicing healthy teamwork, and accomplishing much. Someday we may be forced to a more “corporate” environment, but for today, the informality seems to work.

My goals with this year’s evaluations were to encourage the team, understand where we are going in each area of ministry, offer challenges and areas for improvement where needed and get feedback on the expectations for my role in each person’s success next year. I gave each person the questions I would be asking 10 days in advance and then allotted 2 hours for each person. I closed the meetings by sharing some of the things I am personally excited about in the new year.

Here are the questions:

• Do you like your job?/Do you enjoy what you are doing?
• What are your major objectives for next year?
• Review major expenses for the coming year in your area.
• Do you have the systems in place to accomplish the objectives you have set for your area?
• What can I do to help?   How much do you need of my time this year?
• What is missing from our structure to help you or the church continue to grow as a healthy church?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
• What questions do you have of me about the church…or about my current thought process?

I then told them I would be sharing individual encouragements and challenges about their area of ministry.

This is not at all a perfect system or one that I even recommend. It’s a start for us towards a more structured evaluation process, without becoming too formal.

How does your organization do it’s evaluation process? Would you prefer a more formal or more informal process?

Related posts:

1. Inviting Evaluation from the People I Lead
2. Follow Up: Inviting Evaluation From Your Team (Part 1)
3. Follow Up: Inviting Evaluation From Your Team (Part 2)
4. Follow Up: Inviting Evaluation From Your Team (Part 3)
5. 5 Ways I Attempt to Avoid the Leadership Vacuum