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Marketplace Managers: What It Takes To Attract Them

Edward A. Smith | Outcomes, Mar/Apr 2006

The single most overriding reason why marketplace managers would want to work at your organization is that they perceive they can use their skill set to make a difference, by working in a place where they can see that their work matters to God.

An accounting manager at a local manufacturing company may perform the same basic functions as he/she would with your organization. The big difference could be that, with your organization, that person would experience a stronger sense that he or she is helping to change lives for God's kingdom purpose.

However, providing an environment that gives the staff a clear sense of purpose and significance is not created on its own. Having worked as an executive with some of the top U.S. corporations and, over the last 20 years, with a variety of ministries as both a board member and ministry leader, I've identified nine important areas which need to be in place to create a culture or environment that would attract and retain a marketplace person to a ministry such as yours.

Excellence and Integrity

The key leaders of the ministry must be people of excellence and integrity. This is very important, given that many people are frustrated and disappointed by secular organizations that have represented one thing, yet turned out to be something different, organizations such as Enron, WorldCom, and Arthur Anderson. There's an added bonus if the leadership is transparent and inviting, to the extent that people are encouraged to learn more and get connected in the ministry organization. 

Clear Purpose and Vision

Consistently communicate the purpose and vision of the ministry. It must be very clear to the outsider as well as those who work within the organization as to what you're about. Vision and goals must be high and noble. You have to learn not to be ashamed or shy about setting high goals. You must realize you serve a big God and there are huge needs to be addressed in the hearts and lives of people in the world.

Accountability

The leaders must share and hold themselves accountable to the ministry constituency and staff by regularly providing updates and insight on the progress and results of their ministry efforts. 

Opportunity to Bear Fruit

Teach your people that being fruitful in their lives is not an option. You can draw this line of reasoning from Scripture, such as John 15:1, 2 and 8. The typical marketplace workers are already motivated to produce results, and you should encourage them to be fruitful within your organization as well.