Subscribe to the NetworkGUEST POST: What to Do With a Frustrated Volunteer
This great article on handling conflict with a team member was written by Josh Johnson, High School Minister at Westover Hills Church in Austin, TX. Thanks for submitting the guest post!
Volunteers are as different as two sides of a coin. Some are great…actually if we’re honest; some are more qualified to be the point person than we are! There are also volunteers whom we dream of graduating along with their senior; we wake up with tears in our eyes because it’ll be the greatest “dream come true” moment ever. With that in mind, there will be times in ministry when those who also feel called to ministry (volunteers) don’t quite see eye-to-eye with you. Regardless of what the issue is, it’s important to remember teamwork and Colossians 3:15b, “since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
Here are 5 ideas to help you AND your volunteer move forward and hopefully closer.
1. Listen to them. Many times the volunteer just wants to be heard. They feel called to ministry. They feel they’re a member of the ministry team and simply want to share their ideas with you. Hopefully with a team of volunteers you’re not the only one God is speaking to!
(A little aside: Avoid email. It’s so difficult to read tone, communicate passion…and…LISTEN through email. There’s nothing like a face-to-face. This always communicates commitment, care, and teamwork.)
2. Share your vision. Sometimes volunteers get left out of the decision making processes and are unclear as to why you’ve implemented something new or are heading in a new direction. After meeting with and listening to your volunteer it may become clear that they’re not on the same page as you. Take the time to communicate the heart behind the change and call them to relay the same positive heart to those they’re involved with.
3. Include someone else. That sounds biblical doesn’t it? Sometimes, even after listening and sharing the vision, a volunteer may still be adamant, hard hearted, or divisive. At this point bring in another person, if for anything to help mediate.
4. You’re the Leader. It’s your call. You’re the one that the leadership is looking to to lead, provide direction, purpose, safety, etc. etc. etc. Their may come a time when you need to stand up, be the leader, and call your volunteer to follow.
5. Be Thankful. You could be doing this ministry alone and frustrated. At least with volunteers the worst you’ll be is frustrated. Remember that friction means growth. Thank God for leading others to partner with you in your ministry!
JG
You could always shoot them then ask for forgiveness. They’re in heaven, you’re less annoyed…it’s a win win situation.