Last week, I posted two kidmin job opportunities here on the blog. A few days later, I was contacted by someone who asked for interview tips for someone considering a job in kidmin.
I shared a few tips with them. Actually quite a few would be more accurate. I thought I’d share some of my main points, not in any particular order, with all of you:
1.Pray for direction from God. Has He called you to kidmin? Do you feel pursuing a ministry position is the right thing for you at this time? Are your motives pure?
2. Do your homework about the ministry you are considering. Visit their website/social media page to learn their vision, core values, philosophy of ministry, Statement of Faith, etc.
3. Look carefully at the job description provided. Know what they’re looking for and determine if the position might be a good fit for you.
4. Contact the ministry to get additional information before applying. I’d suggest doing this by phone rather than by email.
5. If you feel God is calling you to apply, update and clean up your resume. (I’d suggest doing this occasionally, even when you’re not looking for a new job.) Make sure it’s visually appealing, formatted properly and free of spelling and grammatical errors. Highlight your education background, ministry experience and qualifications. Remember: your resume is making an impression on the potential employer.
6. Prepare for the interview by:
- thinking about what skills/abilities/passion you bring to the table, not just what the ministry can do for you.
- embracing being a team player. Many churches lean towards a team approach to ministry.
- bringing along some sort of portfolio with lessons you’ve written, print materials you’ve created, etc.
- knowing that some ‘corporate’ skills are usually desired, especially for larger churches. You know those ‘buzz words’: innovative, strategic, creative, etc.
- highlighting ways that you’re still learning and developing your skill set, i.e. training, conferences and classes.
- showing a fun, personal side. Talk some about your family and your interests outside of ministry.
- making a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Ask good questions.
This list is by no means exhaustive but it made for a good conversation. Just a few thoughts from someone who’s been both the interviewee and interviewer.
What would you add to the list? What tips would you give someone looking for a job in kidmin?
