I have talked quite often in organizations where I've led about the importance of identifying your "first team," and the difference it makes in how you lead. Recently I was asked if I could clearly explain the difference between a "first team" and other teams, and why it matters.

First, it is important to identify the differences between the two:

Leadership Team 

The leadership team is the group of individuals who share the responsibility of guiding an organization or a department. In the church context, this team usually consists of the highest-level positions, such as the lead pastor, executive pastors, and primary ministry leaders. We sit side by side, strive to set the strategic direction of the church, and ensure its smooth execution. 

Team of Direct Reports 

Then we have the team of direct reports. This team is the one that we directly manage. Essentially, these are the individuals who report up to us. We're responsible for their performance, their development, and, to a certain extent, their day-to-day operations. 

Differences between Leadership Team and Direct Reports 

It's important to note that these two teams function differently and hold distinct purposes within an organization. Let's dive into their differences. 

In my most recent role where I was an Executive Pastor overseeing campuses, the highest level leadership team I was on was the "Lead Team," and my Direct Reports were the Campus Pastors. Recognizing the fundamental differences between your two teams is crucial for effective leadership.

Now, here's the million-dollar question: Who is your first team? 

To be effective, your first team must be the highest level team you sit on, not the team you lead.

If your first team is the team you lead, or the people you lead —you risk creating a silo department. You likely win favor with your team members, as they know you have their backs and identify with their frustrations, but you also unwittingly contribute to a toxic environment where departments are working separately instead of all focused on the vision of the organization. You miss an opportunity to help your team find ways they can make the overall mission more effective with higher impact.

If, instead, your first team is the highest-level team you are on (you and your boss, or you and a leadership team)—you help contribute toward a healthy and high-functioning organization. You build unity and have an opportunity to lead your team to find ways to further the mission. It requires humility and laying your ego down as you may need to portray a unified front on decisions or directions you don’t love.

When the organization is in a season of health, you rarely have to consciously decide where your loyalty lies. But when the organization is unhealthy or in a season of dysfunction or significant change—you may have to decide multiple times a day: Where is my loyalty? Who is my first team?

If your first team is your team of direct reports, you'll go into leadership meetings lobbying for your team rather than contributing to make the best decision for the organization. You will find yourself saying things after the meeting to your team, such as "I did my best but they wouldn't listen…" or "I don't agree with the decision that was just made."

If your first team is the one above you, you'll leave meetings wanting to translate decisions in a way that garners buy-in, even if it is unpopular.

It’s a choice…

• One builds loyalty to you. The other has the chance to build a strong organization.

• One makes you the hero. The other makes the mission the hero.

• One comes naturally. The other takes a ton of self-talk, holding your tongue, and believing in the greater good.

So, who is your first team?

Our goal at LeadingSmart is to partner with leaders to solve problems. We have a cohort for executive pastors that meets every month, and also offer consulting in areas such as organizational health, staffing, succession and more. Curious? Shoot me an email or let’s set up a call.