The most effective leaders are good mobilizers. They know how to recruit the right people to do the right job and then release them to do it. For a great example of a leader who knew how to mobilize people, look at Joshua. As he was preparing to march on Jericho, Joshua sent two spies who would report directly to him. To read the story, click here. (Joshua 2:1‑24)
An Effective Strategy for Mobilization
1. Select the right people.
A. Choose people you know you can trust to do the job. Not everyone needs to know everyone else's business. Give specific assignments to specific persons for specific tasks.
B. Choose people who are already committed to the project.
C. Choose people who clearly understand the task when you give instructions.
2. Trust them to do their job.
A. Although they used some unconventional methods to accomplish their task, they got the job done because they felt empowered by their leader.
B. They were confident that their leader would back them up when they gave their word.
3. Clarify the limits of delegated authority.
Joshua made it clear that the two would to report only to Joshua. They would give their report secretly to the final decision maker.
4. Value their influence, from three "I's."
A. Encourage their input.
B. Receive their information.
C. Ask for their insight.
5. Wait for the right timing.
A. What a difference a generation can make! (Compare Numbers 13-14):
i. Moses had sent out twelve spies who were already leaders among the tribes. They were chosen by the tribes, not by Moses.
ii. The twelve were sent to explore the land, not to decide if, how, or when to attack. That was a strategic decision that was never intended to be decided democratically or by consensus.
iii. The ten majority spies were afraid and used their power, position, and influence to turn the people against their leader.
iv. The people were predisposed to follow a negative leadership.
v. Only Caleb and Joshua saw that the decision was really the responsibility of a higher authority than their own.
B. Joshua must have learned from the negative experience of his mentor, Moses. He recognized that this was not a decision to be made by tribal representatives on a consensus basis, so he sent only two chosen and anonymous spies who reported only to him.
Hint to Leaders
What can you learn from Joshua's example about empowering your followers and mobilizing them to complete the task you have been given?
Hint to Followers
What can you learn from Joshua's example about effective followership? How can you use your empowerment and influence to help your leader be even more effective?
© Dr. Larry Gay, revised October 2010
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