Many more than me know about the tension that can exist between the local church’s brand and a staff member’s brand. In other words, popularity.
Sometimes a staff member, who may not be the “top dog” in the executive food chain begins to traffic and push their personal brand more than the brand of the church. Whether they do this intentionally is perhaps another question as well as what their particular motives may be.
But, it happens. And it happens more quickly in the online space than anywhere else.
Very quickly a “junior” staff member can supersede the “senior” pastor (and the entire church at times) in terms of Twitter Followers, Friends on Facebook, Blog Stats, RSS Subscribers, etc.
As a result, tension can build and questions arise surrounding ideas of “commitement,” “focus,” “time and attention,” “motivation,” “mission,” “vision,” “dedication,” “boundaries,” and more. This is understandable natural, but can be devastating to the congregation and relationships.
So what do you do?
Read my thoughts on a “solution” after the jump:
The Solution…?
I’m not so sure there’s a definitive solution to this issue in the Ministry context, but here’s some thoughts from my former life and how we handled the issue:
- It is quite possible that this person has “outgrown” the current business and needs to move on. That’s fine. End the relationship amicably.
- Attempting to understand “motives” can get “dirty” really fast. Focus on the externalities and what the results have been and the cost associated. I think, though, motivation from the Christian perspective is important though as well. Sin may be involved too.
- Change their role and scope for their job. Perhaps they really are awesome at doing stuff online. If the business is flexible, make it so they can do what they have come to naturally love. Empowerment is great.
What have you seen happen in other scenarios? What would you do?
[Image from CDM]
chad swanzy says
This is an interesting post however it's seldom an issue as most "top dog" leaders would not allow themselves to acknowledge "junior dog's" popularity at the risk of looking weak or insecure. The tension always stays buried. A better leader would celebrate the person's passion.
This post deserves a gear switch… "What happens when a pastor's brand exceeds the church's or is confused as the church's brand?"
human3rror says
That's a great point chad… and your followup question is just as good. thanks for that.
Mike Mahoney says
You're assuming that the focus of the "personal" space is detracting from the "space" of the church. Many times, it's an additional avenue. This switch-up is very common in worship music circles, especially where the worship leader "grew" out of the church. Many people know David Crowder* Band; how many are familiar with University Baptist Church? But, does UBC really "suffer" in DC*B's shadow? Probably not.
They might, however, if the pastor there cared about such things. The important thing to remember is each has a role and purpose. Who says the senior pastor has to be the most "famous" person in the church, or even on the staff? Perhaps someone else is more gifted at driving visitors in so that the pastor can reach them.
Unless there is a clear conflict – one person creating a presence "on behalf" of the church, without permission – then there should be little problem.
human3rror says
Good point here as well. thanks mike. and great example with dave crowder. point taken!
Aaron says
I’m confused. (That didn’t take long.)
I see where you’re going, but I don’t think you gave enough detail in your example. I’m left wondering, what does the person’s popularity have to do with the church or their affiliation with the church? Unless, of course, they are using the church to bolster their popularity or in some way their personal life (especially that which they portray online) conflicts with their church affiliation?
human3rror says
yeah. i think i'd have to give a bit more context. i think people have missed some critical points of thought…
Chico Woo says
Sorry don't mean to hijack the thread but who owns the material that you post on social media outlets. Church or you? Many people would say you but isn't the reason you got the book or popularity based on your blog or social media was because of the platform that you received by being part of a famous church? So to bring it back Is your popularity online a cause and effect of your position in that church. Would you receive as much attention to your social media if you were part of unknown ministry? Hmmmm.
Chico Woo says
To clarify this is with people on staff at a church.
Josh Wagner says
I'm kind of perplexed at this. I don't understand it (as in how a conflict would arise). That's more than likely because I always assume the best in people, even when they show me otherwise. But wouldn't the church receive exposure anyway? Oh, I know, there are plenty of people who would use the church for their gain… Motive is key, though. The heart will always direct the hands.
And I really, really agree with your #3! Empowering people to do what they do best is how teams are built! I can imagine what we could do if we all got to do exactly what we loved to do every day! Oh, yeah! ๐
ScottWilliams says
As long as the person's popularity/influence is not adversely affecting them, their family, their role or the ministry and the persons influence is positively impacting the kingdom, then no harm. At the end of the day that influence is given to them from above! BE WISE!
human3rror says
i dig that. thanks scott. ๐
on a personal sidenote, anna meadows has spoken the world of you during the orange conference… we should hang out.
Graham Brenna says
I'm hoping for solution #3…
andydarnell says
John
It is an interesting place. I have been gathering a following in the secular world from clients and other business associates. I know that they are following my blog…because they know me through work.
This could be sticky in some orgs. and while I haven't been called out on it, I am aware of the slope. Not to mention the times I screw up and post a tweet sending traffic to my blog and accidentally posted it on my work twitter account. Doh.
human3rror says
ah, good times with social media… ๐