In a job search, it is important for you to know what kind of career opportunity you want. However, it is just as essential that you target what the employer wants in a potential employee. The same goes in ministry. It is important for you to know what God has called you to do and where you are gifted, however it’s also important to think about what churches and pastors are looking for in a candidate.
Here are ways to focus on the key qualities that churches and employers alike are looking for in candidates:
Ability
Before a church will invest a lot of time in a candidate, they first want to determine if the candidate can even do the job. Hiring pastors often receive resumes from unqualified candidates, so they first establish a candidate’s skill level and ministry experience based on their resume. Pay close attention to the requirements set in the job description to ensure that you are qualified and make that clear in your resume.
Initiative
We’ve all heard the phrase “think outside the box.” Churches and pastors are looking for candidates who think outside the box and can take their ministry to the next level. Show that you are capable of taking initiative and show examples where you have. What made you different in your time in previous ministry positions? Give examples of your achievements. Tell what you accomplished personally, in ministry, on a team, and how you have helped your previous churches (employers).
Leadership
Leadership skills are not reserved only for management or corporate America. No matter what level you are at in your ministry or career, you can be a leader. During the interview process be sure to explain a time when you stepped up and became a leader.
Ministry Growth
Pastors are looking for church staff that are self-sufficient and ready to go the extra mile and continue growing. In explaining your work and ministry history, exhibit your ability to be independent, adapt to different situations and even take on additional responsibilities. How did you help your previous or current ministry grow? Did you start any new initiatives or ministry teams? Did you train volunteers and lay ministry leaders on your team? What differences did you make to signify growth?
Compatibility
When selecting a candidate for a position, pastors will often factor in personality and how the candidate will fit in with the church and office culture. While you cannot fully know if your personality will fit any particular job, the best bet it to be yourself. You can do some research on the church and get a feel for their culture to get an idea if the position and culture is a good fit for you.
Team Player
No job is self-sufficient; you will always need to work with other people, especially in ministry. Explain your ability to be a team player. It can also help to demonstrate your gratitude for the contributions others have made to your previous team experiences.
Searching for a new ministry position can be tough. We hope with these tips will help you stand out among others when applying for a new ministry position.
For more job search and career tips and ministry job openings you may be interested in, check out ChurchStaffing.com.
great post, very well written! Thanks for sharing!