Bill Hybels on Leadership Fundamentals

In the opening session of the 2010 Willow Creek Global Leadership Summit, Bill Hybels went back to the basics and asked:  "What do leaders do?"  "What are the fundamentals of leadership?"  Rather than delve into new leadership territory, Hybels decided to go back to the drawing board of leadership and give us some new insights on the basics of leadership. Hybels, who is a brilliant student of leadership went on to give the following four answers to those questions:

1. Leaders Move People From Here To There.

This is not just about the vision-thing.  I used to think the first step for any leader is to cast a vision.  Years of experience have shown me that is not the case because even after casting the most compelling vision some people will respond, "Bill, we really like here better than there."  

The first step play is not to make "there" sound phenomenal, the first play is to make "here" sound horrific and intolerable.  Must build a strong case for why we can not stay put and why that will be disastrous.  

2. Leaders Need To Identify Fantastic People

When looking for fantastic people to be on your team start with the three C's:  character, chemistry and competency.  However, lately I have been thinking about adding a fourth C: culture.  Culture asks the question "Will they fit in around here?"  Access your culture and write down 

3. Leaders Need Create Mile Markers and Celebrations

In a marathon it is not the first few miles that are a struggle; it is easy to get off to a good start.  The last few miles are not as challenging because the finish line is now in sight.  The hardest part of the journey is are the long miles in between.  What is needed:  First, re-fill the vision bucket.  The vision leaks over the miles and it needs to be re-filled.  Secondly, is celebration for what you have accomplished.  A celebration is not just for the finish line, but also along the way.   There is a 40% differential in productivity between an inspired and an uninspired staff worker.  

4. Leaders Need To Hear Whispers From God

God still speaks.  Go still speaks to us everyday! You are not meant to do this alone.  The smartest leadership moves I have made did not come from human wisdom.  Ask yourself, "Do you think God still speaks?"  If he does still speak, then what are you doing to hear from him everyday? 

Comments

[Laura Finney]

Oh I so wish I was there. I really like the notes you have posted from Bill Hybels talk. I will keep looking for more notes they are really great and I thank you for sharing.
Laura

[Jim Botts]

Hey Dave,
Thanks for the useful summary. I'll be watching for further updates on your blog.

Appreciative,
JimBotts

[Matt Stephens]

I think "culture" is implied in the "chemistry" criteria. If you don't fit the church or leadership culture, you don't have chemistry with them. Same with beliefs, philosophy of ministry, etc. Chemistry covers it all.

Peace,

Matt

[Dave Ferguson]

Matt, I'm with you. When I think of "chemistry" it has to be a culture fit. Either word is fine (and they both begin with "C") but they are almost synonymous in this usage.

[Pat]

Why must WE create a vision? Christ laid out the vision for us. It does not need to be improved. All of this effort at church management and analysis detracts from the simple truths of the Gospel. We are losing our way in our efforts to improve on the simplicity of Christ's commands.

[Scott Smith]

Great post Dave. Wish I'd been there!

[David, justopenthebook.com]

Point number four I think should really be the first one listed. Jesus said "apart from me, you can do nothing". All of our vision, goals and intentions need to start with the source of all wisdom, our great God. Finding God's purpose should be the # 1 goal of all leaders. God promises that His purposes will prevail, so if your leading others in God's clear direction, you are assured of success.