Before too long, it will be time for annual reviews at my church. Usually these reviews are frustrating for me, not because I typically get poor reviews or are measured unfairly, but because I don’t think we’re asking constructive questions. Especially in youth ministry, annual reviews can turn into a “I want more lock-ins” campaign when you bring youth into the equation and ask for their open-ended feedback.

The problem is, I’m not sure which questions to ask.

To me, annual reviews should be tools to help you do your job better, and to allow you to see yourself the same way most of the congregation does. So if you think you are working too many hours and the congregation thinks you are working too few (for example), then there is likely a communication and expectation disconnect. The annual review should allow you to see where the disconnects are and work on fixing them.

So, I’m trying to craft a meaningful framework and procedure for my review this year. Do any of you have good processes for conducting annual reviews? My current job is about 50% youth ministry and 50% general administration/Christian education/other, so my final product will need to be broader than a very youth ministry specific review.

I’d love emails, links, or comments about what you have found helpful in an annual review. Thanks.