The Daily Saint

Q: What are your favorite business books that you’ve found helpful for mission-based organizations?

A: I can recommend three that I would certainly consider helpful (and profound):

1. Patrick Lencioni, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
2. David Allen, Getting Things Done
3. Jim Collins, Good to Great

Q: Are there any movies that give a good example of the spirituality of work?

A: One of the best movies that I’ve seen is with Will Smith in The Pursuit of Happyness.  He plays a man who loses everything, becomes homeless and travels with his son to shelters and halfway houses as he gets back on his feet.  If you are a parent, I warn you- this movie will pull at your heartstrings.  In the end, Smith’s character demonstrates that a job is more than just a means to pay the bills- it’s part of our very happiness.

Q: What difference does the spirituality of work make in day to day life in the workplace?

A: For starters, be sure to read Dennis Bakke’s helpful comparison here of soulful work vs. ordinary workplaces.  At the end of the day, a spirituality of work changes your life and those around you.  It plugs you into God and His plan for your life.  What’s more, it can instill a sense of humanity into your workplace.

Q: What are your suggestions for negotiating for a raise or adjustment at work?  I don’t want to shoot myself in the foot from a career standpoint.

A: Employers do not like to be surprised when someone decides to leave.  If you’re unhappy at work but like the organization, voice your issues respectfully and in the right forum.  Request an appointment and speak of your desire to stay within the company.  Many times, a boss would rather make an adjustment to your role than lose you altogether.  Be honest at all times.

Q: I’m trying to bring my faith with me to work.  Which print resources do you recommend?

A: Unfortunately, there are very few “faith at work” resources in print form.  On the flip side, the few that are available are quite good!  Some of my favorites include: Spirituality at Work by Gregory F.A. Pierce, Soul of a Leader by Margaret Benefiel and Getting Things Done by David Allen.

Q: I’m a teacher who would like to become an administrator but I don’t know how to break into that circle of leadership.  Any advice?

A: I would write down the names of 5 people you trust who can also be helpful to your career.  I would then contact them via phone or email.  Be clear with them about what you hope to accomplish with your career.  Ask for their advice and whether they could keep you in mind in the coming months.  See where it goes from there.  Don’t rely solely on job ads in the papers but try to get beneath the surface via these five “helpful friends”.

Q: How should I prepare for my next interview?

A: The best thing about a job interview is that you can prepare for it!  While you can never anticipate every question that will be asked, you can probably nail 90% of the questions.  I would suggest two things in preparation for your next interview:

1. Put together a team of ‘experts’ who can help you prepare.  One might help you with a particular skill set and another might focus on a weak spot that you’ve identified.  3-4 key people can make all of the difference in your next interview.

2. Read Mark Schnurman’s interview tips here.  Excellent tips and the best part- they work!