The Case
Sue and Cindy's personality differences soon led to problems. Cindy was driven to excel while Sue worked in a more relaxed mode. "Sue won't carry her share of the load," Cindy complained to Phil. "She's big on talk but doesn't get things done." Cindy spent hours preparing only to see Sue show up barely in time for an event. Sue saw things differently. "I'm getting paid for only 25 hours a week," she said with a shrug. Sue didn't feel obligated to work extra hours without pay just because Cindy did. Phil suspected Sue, who spent hours building relationships with her workers, could work more efficiently. But his guess was that no matter what he said, Sue would remain unmotivated while Cindy would always push for more.
What Would You Do?
What Happened
Phil listened as Cindy vented her frustrations, a process that helped her gain perspective. She also learned that to lower her expectations for Sue wasn't compromising her work ethic—as long as Phil wouldn't hold her liable for Sue's unfinished assignments. Phil challenged Sue to spend her work hours more wisely. "We don't need you as a counselor," he said. "We need you doing those things that most benefit the children's ministry." Sue began to let go of less productive activities and adjusted her work style. Together Cindy and Sue distributed assignments more evenly, dividing them so they could work independently. One teachers' workshop, for example, would be Cindy's responsibility alone, allowing her to do her best without begrudging Sue's lack of involvement. The next workshop would be Sue's, allowing her to work at her pace without feeling pressured by Cindy The tension in their relationship diminished, and Phil's role as mediator eventually shrank.
Discuss
2. What's the best way to reconfigure job assignments to reflect personality needs without demoralizing the staff?    Adult Sunday School TeacherA resource to help you provide orientation and basic training to men and women involved in adult education and discipleship.  Leadership EnvironmentMake leadership development a natural part of your culture. Prepare for the Training Meeting Follow these four steps to get ready for the training. Reflections on Discipleship Quotations to stir heart and mind.
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