Q&A - How do I test the waters with a new leader?

Q: How do I “test the waters” so to speak with a new leader? Like, I want to make someone a leader, but I want to make sure they’re capable first. I hope that makes sense...

A: That makes total sense! I’m currently part of a church plant, so we’ve been figuring that out too! We have plenty of people that want to serve, but knowing if a person can lead a team or a project can be difficult. What we’ve found to work is this: start by giving away responsibility, not authority.

Here’s how: give them a project. Let’s say you want to make your keys player a music director. That means he or she is the one setting up tracks, instructing the band on parts, and providing musical direction so you can focus on leading and pastoring. Before giving him/her authority over all of that, give him/her responsibility over some of it. See how they do building tracks. After a while, have them direct on one song. Go from there. Baby steps. It'd be the same if you're making a background vocal a worship leader - start by giving him/her a verse, then a song, etc.

As leaders, we're in the people development business! Give people opportunity to grow and do your best guide them along the way.