As a ministry leader, there’s nothing more daunting than setting out to hire a new staff member. You might wonder: Will I be able to find someone who is a good fit for the role and our team? How long will it take? And, more importantly, how long with they stick around?

In today’s podcast, we get practical as we discuss not only the hiring process but also what you can do to engage and retain each member of your staff.

First up, you’ll hear from Doug Fields, executive director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University, on bringing out the best in those who work with you. Then, guesthost and Orange’s own, Sarah Bragg interviews Sarah Jensen, educator and the Founder of KIPP Memphis Preparatory Elementary, on finding staff who stick around.

Welcome to Episode 58 of the Think Orange Podcast.

Topic Timeline

Doug Fields on leading like you want to be lead. (4:44)

The real leadership problem is that we’re not good at developing other leaders. (7:29)

Do you want to leave a legacy of one or a legacy of many? (9:47)

Practical steps for developing leaders and bringing out the best in others. (10:45)

Spotlight leadership. (11:40)

Great leaders must give up striving for perfection. (12:46)

You must believe in your team. (15:25)

Bragging on their team is what leaders do. (20:22)

Give out real responsibilities. (23:55)

Facilitate meaningful relationships. (26:12)

Sarah Bragg interviews Sarah Jensen. (27:17)

Sarah Jensen shares her background and current ministry position. (27:50)

Sarah Jensen on developing a process for finding great people. (31:57)

Know your own pitfalls so you can protect yourself from them in the hiring process. (34:20)

Characteristics to look for in people you want to hire. (37:35)

The power of real-time exercises. (38:38)

Invite candidates to interview you as you interview them. (40:22)

How to create a culture where staff want to stay. (42:43)

Make yourself available to your team. (46:58)

If someone is not a good fit, you’re doing them a disservice to offer them a job. (47:52)

Dave and Ashley’s final thoughts. (49:19)