As a leader it’s so easy for me to focus on what I need from my team that I sometimes forget what my team needs from me. This isn’t an exhaustive list but here are 3 things I think every team needs from their leader:
Vision
It’s the job of every leader to set the direction and vision for their team. King Solomon in Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” Teams not only need to know where the leader is taking them and how they’re going to get there but WHY it matters they go there. If the why is compelling enough your team will work as hard as they can to get there.
Equipping
Without the right tools or preparation your team can’t succeed. The apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:11-12 (NIV) says, “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” Paul knew that the work of a leader is to make sure your team has what they need to do their work.
Care
Perhaps the most meaningful thing a leader can do is show they care for their team. It was said of King David in Psalms 78:72 (NLT) that, “He cared for them with a true heart and led them with skillful hands.” The old saying that “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” is true. Care for your team as they’re out there caring for others.
What are some ways you can give vision, equipping and care to your team?
Jeff McClung 