THE MINISTRY OF ADMINISTRATION 

            How many of you like paperwork? How many of you like administration? I bet if I took a poll, the number would be pretty low. In some of my prior blogs and in workshops I have led, I have said that the offering is an act of worship, and stewardship and finance are ministries. I have something else to add to that list: administration.

            I know, I know, when we talk about administration in the church, we think of Ad Council, statistical reports, charge conference reports and the church audit. I agree, that’s why I chose this topic after all; it is Charge Conference Season!

            Not everyone likes doing the paperwork that is part of our daily lives; and it seems like it’s a large part of our church lives as well! In fact, not everyone is good at it either. As someone who scores very high in administration on spiritual gift assessments, I wanted to share a checklist of things that may help you deal with the administrative “stuff”. Keep in mind, I’m a list person. In fact, I’ve been known to create a list of lists that I need to create, so bear with me.

1.            Organization. Being organized can sometimes be hard. But there are some things that I (personally) think can make it easier. Keep your desk/workspace/office in good order. Piles are okay, but not lots of piles and not piles that morph into each other. A good filing system is important. Filing (or scanning and saving) paper as soon as possible after it crosses your desk or the task is complete is vital.

2.            Communication. While it’s great to be able to have good lists and a clean and organized desk, if you don’t communicate good requests, information and processes to others, you will find that your administration will suffer.

3.            Teamwork. Communicating is important, but working with others is also important. Everyone having a good understanding of what is required, what is needed, and who is responsible for what is critical.

4.            Responsibility. As a follow-up to teamwork, let’s keep responsibility in mind. If everyone understands what they’re responsible for, tasks will be completed on time and tasks will be done correctly.

5.            Time Management. All of this seems like a lot I know, but focusing on your time management is necessary for your peace of mind and for the completion of necessary tasks. Maintaining your calendar, scheduling time to complete tasks, and setting good timeline expectations will help. Paper is good, computers are good, apps and programs are all helpful. What works best for you will be the most helpful.

6.            Multitasking. Sometimes it will seem that you will have multiple tasks that all need to be completed at the same time. Prioritizing and communication will help everyone be on the same page.

            As someone who enjoys administrative tasks and is usually pretty good at it, I’m happy to sit down and talk about issues, or meet via Zoom, or even email back and forth to help you with your own administrative needs.

 

            If you wish more information on anything you’ve been reading about, please feel free to contact me at (315) 427-3668 or sranousacctg@twcny.rr.com or susanranous@unyumc.org.  I’d be happy to help.