Jul 28 2008

50 Questions for Interviewing with a Church Posted 4 years 299 days ago ago by Creator Staff     0 Comments

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Find out what you need to know in an interview

These questions are best used in helping a candidate interview with a prospective church for the position of minister of music. Any ministerial candidate may also effectively utilize this list by simply modifying some of the questions. It was developed by Mike Simoneaux This list is not meant to be an exhaustive list of such questions, and some may not apply to every situation. Use this list as a starting point, and feel free to develop your own questions. May God bless you as you seek His will.

The Call/Hire Procedure

1  Is the minister of music called or hired?
2  How is the process of call/hire finalized?
3  Who makes the decision to call/hire?
4  Is there a written agreement in the call/hire process?

General/Work Related

5  To whom is the position directly responsible?
6  Would I have direct access to the pastor?
7  What are the other ministerial staff positions, and how would they relate to me?
8  Is there a secretarial position supporting the work of the minister of music?
9  Please describe the music program, its components and level of participation by the church family?
10  Has there been a change in the level of participation? If so, why?
11  Describe accurately the key-board ability of the accompanist(s). Are they paid? Would they mind being auditioned?
12  What is the present style of the worship services?
13  Does the style accurately reflect the nature of the congregation?
14  If not, is change desired? Does the congregation want to change, or is staff encouraging the change?
15  What would you recommend as a procedure for change that would not injure the fellowship of the church?
16  Is there a worship planning team in place and functioning?
17  Does the pastor meet with the team?
18  What are the responsibilities of the minister of music for the worship service?
19  Would I have the freedom to experiment and fail?
20  What hymnal does the church use in worship?
21  What are the traditions of the church (musical and otherwise)?
22  What is the personality of the church?
23  Are there interfamily relationships?
24  What are the “potholes” to avoid?
25  What instruments are used in worship?
26  Would I be responsible for Sunday School music leaders?
27  May I have a copy of the last two years church budgets?
28  If the church has by-laws, may I have a copy?
29  What extra-musical duties would I have?
30  What would be my committee responsibilities?
31  Would I be responsible for the sound system and its operation?
32  What are the desires of the church in regards to large production-type presentations?
33  Are there choir officers and do they function effectively?
34  Is there a music committee and/or music advisory committee of some sort?
35  Are there unwritten expectations for my spouse?
36  What are my responsibilities for the weekly newsletter, if one exists?
37  Is there an annual evaluation? If so, who carries that out and what is the evaluation instrument?
38  Is there a written all-inclusive job description?

Compensation Issues

39  How is Social Security deducted?
40  If the church pays Social Security, is that amount added to the taxable salary?
41  What is the vacation schedule?
42  What is the schedule of weekday(s) off?
43  What is the total amount of salary and benefits package?
 that.
44  Does the church match staff retirement contributions? If so, what percentage?
45  May I develop a side business if it does not conflict with church responsibilities?
46  Is there a written letter of agreement stating the full compensation package?
47  Are there professional development funds for my use?
48  If so, how many workshops (days gone) may I attend?
49  What is the policy regarding extra services such as revivals?
50  Are computers assigned to the music ministry?

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