Leading Down
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Leading down might not be what you think it is. Rather than leading based on your role or title, your leadership should be with the goal of mentoring and developing those you lead. Leaders must balance pressure with grace and understand that leadership is about growth and influence, not just authority.
Building Your Team
Leading down involves guiding and developing individuals. This is true for staff leading volunteers and volunteers leading their peers. It’s crucial to foster an environment where team members can thrive without fear.
- Leadership should be influence-based, not fear-based.
- Avoid using your authority as the sole justification for decisions.
- Create a safe space for team members to grow and develop.
Supportive Environment
Reducing pressure is a key part of effective leadership. This means fostering a supportive vulture that helps team members feel valued.
- Relieve pressure by creating a safe space for learning and growth.
- Encourage a balance between helpful pressure and a supportive atmosphere.
- Allow team members to experience challenges and learn from them.
Efficiency vs. Development
In high-stress situations, your instinct may be to solve the problem quickly yourself. However, guiding team members through challenges is often better. This helps foster long-term growth and competence.
- Prioritize development over quick fixes in non-critical situations.
- Recognize the importance of preparation and readiness in reducing mistakes.
Worship Over Performance
It’s important to remember that the main goal is worship. It’s not about a flawless performance. Leading with this mindset helps reduce pressure and fosters a more real, worshipful atmosphere.
- Worship is the primary goal, not performance.
- Create a culture that values execution and excellence without fear.
FILO (First In Last Out) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization built around supporting technical artists who serve the local church, designed to provide skill development, community and inspiration to equip technical artists to become effective contributors to their local church. Learn more and join the community at filo.org.