HR In The Church

When people think of HR they don’t usually think about the church.  The church is no different than any other organization that has human resources.  Like other organizations, churches try to maximize their financial and human resources.  A small church has the same HR problems that a small company has.  A large church has the same HR problems that a large company has.   

Churches that belong to denominations have a built-in organizational structure.  In those instances, it’s simply merging the HR functions with the existing organizational structure.  For churches that are not in a denomination it will take more time and energy to build an organizational structure.    

Like a sole proprietor, a small church has to decide when it’s time to bring someone on board to help with the work.  A sole proprietor may barter their services until they can pay someone.  A small church may utilize the expertise of one of its congregants until they can pay someone.  I’d give a small church the same advice I’d give a small company.   

Whether you’re bartering your services or utilizing the expertise of a congregant, be honest and make your expectations known, don’t assume anything.  Have something in writing.  A gentlemen/women’s agreement does not ensure you will get the outcome you want.  Whether formal or informal you want to have a written agreement.  The agreement should detail the service(s) to be rendered, the hourly or flat rate, the timeframe in which the service(s) are to be delivered, and the signature of the parties involved.   

When you have a written agreement, it ensures that all parties know what the expectations are.  It also provides protection and/or recourse if one or all parties don’t keep their end of the bargain.  When you get to the point where you need full-time help then you have to make a decision.  Do you hire someone as an employee or a contractor.  If you’re going to hire fifteen people or less, it would be prudent to hire them as contractors.  Most small businesses and small churches don’t have the infrastructure to have employees.