Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:00 — 4.1MB)
Presented by Lauren Stibgen
As we continue to explore how we show our faith through our work, thinking about our relationships with our colleagues, superiors, subordinates, and clients is key. Remember, we are thinking about Colossians 3:23, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…
So, what does God have to say about our relationships? Well, if you study the bible, you know he says a lot! However, if we are to take a wide lens view of what the word says about our relationships, it is summed up well in the greatest command. While this command is found throughout the gospels, Luke 10:27 says we need to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.
Love your neighbor as yourself. Those that we encounter at work today are our neighbors. How can we show them love?
We have already covered one way to show love to others and that is through our time. Let’s take this one step further and think about being present. Mary recently talked to us about the ministry of presence. Truly being in the moment and present for someone is a way to show our faith and love for God. When you meet with someone, think about leaving your phone behind or silencing notifications. How is your eye contact? Are you actively listening to what they are saying?
Think about how you connect with others at work. Are your connections authentic or surface? How are you getting to know more about them, beyond their position in your workplace? Knowing more about their favorite past times and even their family time can help build authentic community at work. Maybe you can ask about a child’s birthday, an important sporting event or buy them a gift card to their favorite restaurant for a special occasion. You won’t know if you don’t take the time to connect.
Being in a leadership role makes your relationships even more important. As part of my role as a leader in our organization, I am responsible for reviewing team performance and ensuring goals are set for the upcoming year. With a few new team members this year, I was surprised to learn two of them had never had managers who asked about their goals. In fact, one told me her goals were always the goals of her manager. Now, while part of this is true of any position, it was clear no one had shown an interest in her talents, strengths, and goals. Simply asking the question made her feel valued.
Most importantly, spread the love! Don’t silo yourself to your team. Building cross-departmental relationships is both good for you and for your organization! Be the builder!