A Leader Drives Culture

I visit three medical providers on a regular basis—each one every six months or so. As I waited recently to see one of the doctors, I reflected on the difference in the way that they deal with patients.

One is a well-run, professional practice where I am always greeted by a friendly nurse who makes me feel at the ease. The doctor is a capable person who asks good questions and includes me in making decisions about my health.

Another is very much a family-type practice. I know everyone in the office. The doctor is rather laid back and always outlines options for my treatment.

The third is very much oriented toward providing a service and moving patients along. The doctor is a very competent person but works more from a prescriptive approach, telling me what the best approach is for my treatment.

Now, I am very happy with the service provided by each of these practices, but I am also aware of how the personality of the lead professional in each office drives the culture. Each is a free-standing provider, so the leader can employ personnel, supervise them, and set the cultural standards.

How does this apply to churches? Even though a church has its own culture, the staff leader has the opportunity shape the relationships between staff members, reinforce certain behaviors, and embody desired values. He or she can shape the culture of the staff. Unfortunately, many staff leaders abdicate this responsibility and miss the chance to develop a healthy, highly functioning staff team.

There are many things that a leader cannot influence in the life of the church, but the development of staff culture is an opportunity that should not be overl

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