Everybody Doesn't Hate You, It Just Feels Like It

It's been 12 days since my MinistryCOM general session (inspired by this post). You can almost re-live it...thanks to notetakers who have blogs. I've had requests for links to the medias I used. Here they are, with a little "context" thrown in there...free of charge. Audio files of all the sessions will be available on WiredChurches.com within the next few weeks.

1. What was your first impression of the communications department? Fun fact: when I started, there was no "communications department". This raw and candid feedback is from one of our weekly staff meetings earlier this month. My co-worker's first impression of "the department" was their first impression about "me". Sad. But, true. And, justly deserved. BTW...I make a cameo appearance at the end of this media to try to tip the scales back in my favor. Do you think I'm obvious?
2. Office Safari. If you compared your office demeanor to an animal, what species would reflect your style? What interactions at work tend to bring out the “animal” in you? What do you do when you recognize that tendency in yourself?
3. Deb's Story. Are you taking yourself too seriously? Really. Is it all about you and your “control” over things? Or… are you looking for ways to help provide relief to others? Is your frame of reference about ways to help people do what they want to do or how to get them to do things your way? Deb’s story is an example of what we all work for and hope to see; a heart softened and a life changed in Christ. But, the lesson in there for us is modeled in the story behind the story; the traffic team. They didn’t prioritize their policy and position over people. They checked their ego.
4. What's your impression of the Communications Department NOW? I had brought a lot of tools and experience from the corporate world when I showed up on the scene. I was pretty confident in my skillz. But, with all that was on my side, I was ineffective. All the talent, technique, tools and tricks you may have on your side in graphics, creativity, copywriting… won’t get you anywhere if the people on your team think you’re an idiot. I’m not saying you ARE an idiot… but people might think you are one. Or, a bully. Or, controlling? All of us are under pressure to demonstrate results quickly and have the tendency to skip the crucial “soft skills” of our job required for teamwork and flow. We underestimate the difficulty and the importance of "communication" in "communication". For the past couple of years me and my team have intentionally focused on relationships and how our actions make people feel instead of how we get them to do what we want them to do. The result is  breakthrough thinking and new insights…from EVERYONE on the same page. It all boils down to your perspective.
5. The Truth. I ended the talk with this media and slipped off stage while the audience absorbed the art. It was good for them and for me...eliminating the awkward "I'm done now. Everybody clap because you're supposed to" ending.

Comments

[Guy Richards]

Hi Kem,

Very impressive writing. I'm a part of a brand strategy company that focuses on Christian companies and have a similar story on how i came to Christ.

Please touch base with me i would love to talk.

Guy Richards
abiah.com
Prv. 3:5-6

[Kem Meyer]

Hey all... you can buy DVDs here: http://www.wiredchurches.com/s.nl/sc.9/category.10002/.f or watch them for free anytime on the media player (links in this post). Either way.

[Michael Buckingham]

You did a fabulous job, and I had very high expectations of your session in particular. As I told you, I've heard you on many podcasts and you say it better than anyone out there. You clearly set the pace.

I didn't get the flyer you handed out so maybe this information is on there but how would we get a hold of or purchase The Truth video.

Great to see you...sorry I can't make it to Innovate today but it is my wedding anniversary today and that always comes first.

[Jamie Westlake]

Are you granting permission to use this or purchase it?

[Jamie Westlake]

Are you granting permission to use this or purchase it?

[Jamie Westlake]

Are you granting permission to use this or purchase it?

[Skyler Goodman]

This stuff was great. Thanks for always sharing your heart!

[Jeremy Scheller]

I read, I watched, I was moved, I wept (ok it wasn't weeping, but about as close as I get).

This is was really incredible. You deserved a round of applause at the end.

The Truth.
Holy Holy Moly. I love this piece.