Being adaptable and prepared can greatly improve the delivery of your service. Last minute changes are unfortunately inevitable in most environments, but the attitude you have towards them will ultimately determine the impact of your service. Especially in smaller churches, changes are frequent and it’s important to offer solutions to the fast-paced environment of a Sunday morning.

Unexpected changes and multitasking are common. Flexibility isn’t just about managing tasks, it’s also about keeping a service oriented attitude. Handling several roles at once is common in churches, and being flexible is crucial for this kind of multitasking. Adopt a positive attitude towards change that’s accommodating to last minute changes which is essential for smooth operation and delivery of your service.

Clear communication is key. Whether it’s about the capacity of work a team member can do before being overwhelmed or about priorities when new requests are made, communication is crucial. Set realistic expectations, whether you’re the leader or member of the team, and talk openly. Say what’s possible and what isn’t. Balance new requests with existing tasks to prevent burnout and ensure all tasks are done efficiently. Team members, ask your leadership what the priority is.

New team members might feel extra pressure when they face unexpected requests. Leaders play a crucial role in shielding team members from becoming overwhelmed and ensuring they feel supported and capable. Changes can amplify nervousness, but it’s important for the leader to ensure the changes don’t overburden any one member of the team.

Open and honest communication should be the norm in your team. This allows for a flexible but structured approach to serving in your church. Trust and honesty are key to letting the team adapt to last minute changes without friction. Shared responsibility can reduce the burden on individuals and foster team collaboration.