Want to Build Your Ministry Team? Consider These 3 Steps

We had a significant amount of our volunteers step back from serving this year. It was hard not to take it personally. Anytime I struggle with recruiting people to serve, I do wonder, “Is there something wrong with me?” While there might be, the reality is that building a team of volunteers is an ongoing process with its high and low points. Whether you are in your first or fifteenth year of ministry, you will have moments when it’s appropriate to take a step back to look at the bigger picture.

While the current pandemic has presented its challenges, it’s still possible to recruit people to serve. In fact, people are looking for things to do, considering all other activities are in flux. But, if you are not sure where to start to build your team, consider:

EXPANDING THE CONVERSATION

You are probably not the only person at your parish thinking about this issue. There might be separate situations but similar challenges. In my experience, building a volunteer culture is much easier when you partner up with coworkers. Bring the conversation to your pastor and ask them about putting together a committee or a team to start addressing the issue.

MAKING THE NEED CLEAR

We all need help, but what does that look like? Are you in need of small group leaders or event planners? Would having a graphic designer or admin really help you get to the next level? Before you say, “I need help!” be sure to clarify where someone can step in and serve. 

To clarify the need, list out all the responsibilities you do. Take note of what motivates you and what drains your energy. Identify your gifts and talents so that you know where your strengths and weaknesses fall. Once you identify those tasks, try writing out a small job description for each one. Just a sentence or two that names what they can accomplish.

Clarifying your needs and making them known enables you to go after the right people. It’ll also make your ministry more attractive because people will have options, and what tasks need to be accomplished will be clear.

INVESTING IN THE CULTURE

People want to be a part of something bigger, and your ministry can be that opportunity. It starts by creating a culture where people work well together and encourage one another. Make sure you spend time investing in each other relationally. You should know a little about each of your volunteers and make sure you show them gratitude. Let them know that you care about them as an individual and not just a warm body.

At the same time, invest in their formation as a disciple of Christ. Make sure you offer workshops, resources, retreats, and conferences that can help them grow pastorally and spiritually. One of the keys to keeping a volunteer around for the long haul is by making their ministry health a priority.

Growing a team of volunteers takes time, but the more intentionality you put behind the process, the stronger your efforts will be. Again, people want to be a part of something bigger, and your ministry can be that opportunity. It might take time, but the journey is worth it.

What have you found successful when it comes to recruiting a team?