My last post dealt with the process of interviewing for a position. This post will deal with the process of interviewing potential candidates for a ministry opportunity at your church. I’m not going to get into when to hire – that’s for another day – but hopefully these simple tips will help you find the right person for the job!
- In an interview there are three areas you want to be aware of (This is not original with me – you can thank Andy Stanley for this):
- Competence – Do they have the skill-set to fill the role you have available with excellence?
There is definitely an art to ministry, but it must be matched with skill. This isn’t to say that God doesn’t use the unskilled – He actually does this throughout scripture! But certain people fit better in certain ministry opportunities. Make sure the person you’re interviewing has the passions and skills need to do what you’ll be paying them to do (pretty simple!). - Character – Are they spiritually mature enough to lead others in spiritual growth? Do they have integrity as a person?
I can’t overstate the importance of this area! I have seen way too many talented ministers fall because of a lack of character. Just because they can play every instrument on your stage doesn’t mean they would make a good minister! Really probe them in this area. Do they walk with integrity? Is prayer an important passion of their life? Where do they stand morally? The last thing you want to happen is for you to bring a new person on your staff only to have them experience a moral failure 6 months in. - Chemistry – How would they fit on your leadership team? How would they fit in your church?
This aspect is sometimes forgotten, but it is still very important. I have heard it explained as an comparison to marriage. It’s not that you are marrying this new staff member, but if you don’t feel a relational chemistry in the interview – working with them will be tough. Unless you’re looking to hire someone on for a short period of time – chemistry is very important. It’s not that you and this person will be BFF’s but you do want to connect. Remember, you’ll be seeing them everyday in the office
- Competence – Do they have the skill-set to fill the role you have available with excellence?
- Here are some suggested questions to use throughout the interview:o
Explain your journey to me. What has brought you to this place in your life?
o What is your dream? What would you like to see yourself doing?o What are some of your strengths? What are some of your weaknesses?
o What types of ministries were you involved in when you were in college?
o Explain to me your personal Leadership Style. How well do you follow?
- Here are some other things you’ll want to cover in your interview:
- Explain the culture of your church & the community you are ministering in.
- Explain the nature/responsibilities of the position there are applying for.
- Explain your own leadership style.
- When you finish the interview, just thank the person for their time, pray with them and let him know we will be in contact with him within the next 2-3 weeks
Nick Poole 
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