As pastors, we need to put together a team and train them to lead.

Below are listed a few suggestions to help get you become an even greater team leader...

(Keep in mind: You can learn leadership skills. You do not have to be a born leader to be affective.)

Know your team personally. It may not be possible for you to see all of your team members on a daily basis but you can stay in touch by phone or e-mail. Let them know you care and that they are important to you and your team.

Meet with your team regularly. This depends on the upcoming events but it would be great to meet with them on a weekly basis. If most of your team members are volunteers, try to meet with them a few minutes before or after church to keep them from making a special trip to another meeting. Meeting on a regular basis sends a message to them that you are serious about your ministry.

Provide proper training. Your team may be used in many different ways and will probably need some type of training. They may need to be trained in the art of chaperoning or planning a meal for fifty leaders. Whatever you want them to do make sure you train them in that area.

Motivate your team. A card in the mail or an unexpected phone call goes a long ways in motivating a team member. Let them know that you are praying for them to have good physical and spiritual health. Thank them often for what they do for God and His teens.

Thank, praise and socialize with team members. I really do not think this needs much of an explanation. Spend as much time as possible with each member.

Constantly communicate. Always keep your team members informed of upcoming events, teen situations and prayer request. Communication is key in any organization, especially when a lot of people and coordination are involved.

Delegate. Team members need to learn to delegate as much as you do. You may have a team member who is in charge of Vacation Bible School. That person will need to delegate others to help and even be in charge of certain areas.

Empower team members. Empower your team members to take control of certain areas. This does not mean that you will leave them hanging out on a limb alone. It simply means that you are training and trusting them to get a certain area of ministry done.

It is our prayer that the above suggestions will help you get started with a great leadership team.