The Myth of the Expert
by Dr. Keith E. Webb

A common complaint among leaders is that they don't have enough leaders. The problem, as I see it, is not a shortage of people but the wrong perspective on who is qualified to lead.

In the cross-cultural ministry world, many field leaders and workers hold to the Expert Theory. This theory says that if a person hasn't become fluent in the local language, planted an indigenous church, or out-performed and out-lasted others in ministry, then they are not qualified to lead others.

Do I exaggerate? Maybe a bit, but not much.

While it's true that experience and professional competence can and does help a leader, it also can get in the way. I've met competent church planters who were incompetent leaders of church planters. That's because these functions require different skill sets.

The ability to do and ability to lead others to do are two very different activities.

Consider the perspective of Tom Peters, the management guru: "The leader is rarely - possibly never - the best performer. The best leader is rarely the best pitcher or catcher. The best leader is just what's advertised: the best leader. Leaders get their kicks from orchestrating the work of others - not from doing it themselves."

Some try to use the Expert Theory to determine who is qualified to coach others. Again, only the ministry experts with 15 years experience should apply.

Good coaches do require expertise - in coaching skills. Without good coaching skills even the most experienced cross-cultural worker can find himself to be ineffective as a coach.

The best coaching combination is a solid set of coaching skills built on a framework of life experience from which to ask questions and explore potential solutions.

How about you?

• Where does the Expert Theory creep into leadership qualifications in your organization?
  
• How do you measure leadership ability?
  
• In what ways do you want to increase your expertise in coaching?

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Copyright © 2007 Keith E. Webb & CRM

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Dr. Keith E. Webb is a trainer and experienced cross-cultural leadership coach helping organizations, teams, and individuals multiply their cross-cultural impact. Find free articles at http://www.CreativeResultsManagement.com.