As a job seeker, know your personality and what energizes and drains you at work. Ask hard questions when interviewing. Know what you need to be happy and effective. Be discerning and honest about the right fit for you. Buyer beware: this culture is not for everyone.
Focusing exclusively on the mission or an idealized notion of Christian fellowship will disappoint you. If you are called by God to do the work, then hang in there. It takes time to navigate a complex culture, establish your track record and build relationships. Don't lose heart in the first 12 to 18 months. You will hit your stride, but it takes time.
The need to mature quickly as an organization causes growing pains. The organization's learning curve is steep to implement standards and practices you might take for granted if you come from a corporate environment. The CEO is aware of what needs to change (and how quickly). He and the executive team are diligently implementing changes.
Cooperation and communication between organizational units takes effort. Work feels like it's harder than it needs to be at times. That being said, cross-functional communication and collaboration show significant improvement in the last 18 months.
"Do not despise the day of small beginnings." Patiently and persistently focus on vertical influence. Intentional consulting, quick wins and established track records are rewarded.
There are high expectations for employees in a Christian workplace. Staff is passionate and has strong opinions. Some can personalize things that are not personal. The importance of building and maintaining relationships is critical to success. It can be exhausting.
Unrealistic expectations for collaboration and input (and if it is given, that it will be incorporated). This can slow things down. At times, staff confuse input with decision making authority. People get frustrated with the pace and feel like they don't have autonomy in their roles. It's a work in progress. Senior leadership continues to communicate who has authority and accountability as well as to clarify roles and responsibilities.
Uneven management: Some gems, some frogs. Some senior leaders have come up through the ranks of the organization and are accustomed to hands-on involvement. At times, this can be maddening input on finer points miles away from the C-level. Another work in progress.
Compassion is working on increasing US-based diversity, especially in leadership; limited opportunities for women in leadership.
Your faith will be tested. God will prune and refine you. You have to be willing to die to yourself (ego, pride, personal ambitions). Satan does not like releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name. You will be sifted like wheat.
Work/life balance can be a challenge when you're trying to save the world. Know your limits and keep your boundaries.
