Evaluating & Coaching Small Group Leaders

By Doug Franklin October 8, 2010

The new year is in full swing and most of our small group ministries are underway. Which of your small groups are doing well and which groups are struggling? I know what you are thinking, “I just got the small groups off the ground, give me a minute to rest.” For most of us we put all our energy into getting the small group ministry going but if we don’t evaluate our small groups now, little problems will become big ones. It’s not enough just to have leaders of groups; we must make sure they are prepared, faithful and transformational. To do this we need to become a coach. Coaches are inspirational people who can help you be a better leader while helping be transformational in the life of a student. Coaches don’t tell people they are doing something wrong; coaches see potential in others and help bring it out. Your small group needs more than another lesson; they need a coach.

Start by evaluating how your leaders are doing. Your evaluation should come from the training you gave them at the beginning of the fall. Once you have assessed their needs work to encourage them on what they are doing well and one area they can improve on. Take in one improvement at a time, which is really all a volunteer can handle. Your care and coaching will make the difference and your small groups will flourish. Without coaching most small groups die in the winter. Prevent this from happening by being with and caring for your leaders.