Why Relational Skills Are Critical to Leadership Success

Podcast Episode #229Discussion about recent post on relational IQ and leadership and the importance of relational skills to effectiveness in ministry.Some highlights from today's episode include: * Relational IQ begins with a foundation of a vibrant prayer life. * If you have a healthy relationship with God, you'll likely have a healthy relationship with others. * There's nothing wrong with talking about yourself, as long as it's not to the exclusion of everything else. * Relationships are commanded by Scripture. * A healthy sense of humor is one where you are able to laugh at itself. * The first reaction we should have to criticism or anything negative should not be defensiveness. * Just like you can always learn more cognitively, you can always learn more relationally.The seven characteristics of relationally intelligent leaders are: * They have a vibrant prayer life. * They ask about others. * They rarely speak about themselves. * They are intentional about relationships. * They have a healthy sense of humor. * They are not usually defensive. * They constantly seek input.Episode SponsorsMidwestern Seminary, located in the heart of the Midwest, is one of the fastest growing seminaries in North America and offers a fantastic array of academic programs, including multiple online and residential options at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Midwestern’s new 81-hour Mdiv program, online program, and doctoral program have all been recognized as some of the most innovative and affordable in the country. There has never been a better time to begin your seminary education. Midwestern Seminary trains leaders 'For The Church.’Visit them online at MBTS.edu and start your ministry training today.Vanderbloemen Search Group is the premier pastor search firm dedicated to helping churches and ministries build great teams. They’ve helped hundreds of churches just like yours find their church staff and are uniquely geared to help you discern who God is calling to lead your church.Find out more about Vanderbloemen Search Group by visiting WeStaffTheChurch.com.FeedbackIf you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here on Church Answers.Resources Mentioned in Today's Podcast * For the Church in St. Louis * FTC.co * The Levity Effect * ChurchAnswers.com