This was originally posted in my newsletter.
Holding the position of technical director (or "head sound guy/gal") means you are tasked with leading your crew so they can create the best atmosphere for worship. This means you lead by example, you lead by training, and you tend your flock. Tending can equal preventing burn-out, rewarding, and calling them to task. But there is something else you should do as a leader that is equally important as all of those tasks. You should bring up a protégé.
One day, you will want to leave your position of leadership. One day, you might want to take a sabbatical from being the one in charge. One day, you might find yourself out-of-commission for an extended period of time. One day, someone will need to take your place.
A leader should train those on their team so everyone can do their tasks to the best of their ability. However, not everyone has the desire to be the head tech in their church.
Grooming another person for a leadership position benefits your team in several ways;
- Your team has two people to look to for leadership, not just one. (And in case you get hit by a bus…)
- The person you mentor has the opportunity to grow in ways they didn't have before.
- God-given talents such as leadership can be cultivated in your protege.
- You are setting an example for your team in how they can grow leadership from within.
- Possibly saves you from burn-out because it's easier to step down (take a break, whatever) when there is someone competent to take your place.
- If something unexpectedly happens to you, the pastor doesn't have to worry about the tech team and/or the quality of the next service.
Is there anyone on your team who has the makings of a leader? What can you do if there is not?
Thought? Questions? Comments?