“Can I get a copy of your resume to share with First Mt. Redemption, Twice Removed?” This is a question that we all hear during our ministries.  Before we discuss how to respond to this question, let’s get one thing straight:

A request for a resume is not a request to move or relocate.  It is not a commitment on the part of a church or Search Committee.  Indeed, the committee may not even be aware that someone has requested your resume.  Two important realizations follow here: 1) you can provide a resume with no commitment to move on your part, and 2) the fact that a committee has your resume does not commit them to call or consider you as a candidate. 

So how should you respond?

When someone asks for your resume it is a compliment to you and to your ministry.  Be nice.  The person who asks holds you in esteem or there would be no interest in your availability. 

Respond quickly.  If you cannot make up your mind to provide a resume, or if you don’t have time to prepare a resume, or if God does not give you freedom let the inquirer know as soon as you can.  Often the person asking has promised to provide a resume to someone else.  Delay puts someone else in a bad light and gives you the appearance of being indecisive.

If possible, respond in the affirmative.  Understanding that it implies no commitment, an affirming response makes you available to either stay where you are, or go to a new place of service.  In addition, providing a resume to one church may open the door at another church, as church leaders have a multitude of relationships.  And by providing a resume, you also place yourself in the position to learn from both God and his people how to better do what He has called you to do.  There are requests that God will lead you to decline, but usually, you do well to provide the resume.

Pray.  Ask God to use this tool to make you as effective as you can possibly be in His Kingdom.  Then allow him to work.

Relax.  Churches without pastors get hundreds of resumes.  Yours may not ever get the attention that you and I believe it deserves.  Also, it usually takes a church more than a year to find a new pastor.   And it is good that they take their time.  There is no need to constantly check the voice mail…, it is better to be surprised than to be disappointed.

Next week, some Search Committee members share what they are looking for in a ministerial resume.

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