Leadership Opportunities in this VUCA Moment: Reforging Relationships with Your People

In this VUCA--volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous--moment, we are rediscovering that what we crave most is relationship, and we are discovering new ways to relate to family, friends, co-workers, and fellow disciples. THNK recently posted a blog suggesting how we can take advantage of this opportunity, and we can apply their insights to the church.

First, lead with humanity and empathy. The key word I am hearing both from business and spiritual leaders is connection. In this time of shelter-in-place and social distancing even the introverts among us desire human contact. Even those who have families with whom to interact are feeling vulnerable. Church leaders have created or rediscovered many ways to keep in touch with their flocks--not just Zoom and Facetime but cards, letters, and telephone calls--and remind each person that they are loved and valued. No matter their age, status, or level of church involvement, they are important.

Second, reinforce your organization’s narrative. Every organization is subject to “mission drift.” Even faith-based organizations will inevitably drift from their founding mission and attempt to do things outside of that mission. The COVID-19 crisis has helped us to remember an important aspect of our mission: the church is the people not the building. This is an insight that reminds us that we are the people of God regardless of when, where, and how we meet. This is a valuable part of our narrative.

Third, inspire others to grow from this experience. In the THNK blog, the writers note that a crisis “is an opportunity to learn new skills, to take risks, to emerge stronger on the other side.” Clergy leaders have certainly embraced this challenge, but many of our lay leaders have as well. They have learned new technological skills to contact people, access resources, teach the Bible, and conduct group meetings. We have all found ourselves learners who are willing to share what we have learned with others. We are on a journey that stretches us, and we are doing it together.

In Leading Congregational Change, the authors point out that at the heart of a successful change process are two things: spiritual and relational vitality. Just as Jesus explained in Matthew 22:36-40, we are to love God and love our neighbor--vertical and horizontal relationships. Both are needed during this time of change. Failure to nurture both can lead us down the wrong path.

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