Networking Tips for “Missionators”

March 18, 2009 – 4:19 pm

Me and a group of friends refer to each other as missionators. Basically we’re referring to our desire to learn about other cultures and what God is doing around the world for his glory. (I googled the term and came up with: a Mormon missionary, video game tips, and some German stuff. Does anyone else use this word to refer to missions-minded people? Just curious.)

As I grow in my understanding of historic and biblical missions, I often wonder how certain people seem to be so knowledgeable about missions ideas, terms, and groups and how they know so many missionaries or missions leaders. What’s their secret for obtaining “insider info?”

Missions Catalyst recently posted 4 basic networking tips in regards to networking with other “missions gurus.” These tips refer to how to locate and get the most out of missions conferences/conventions, but the ideas can be applied in a broader sense:

Basic Networking Tips

Some of the most interesting events of this type [conference on international partnering in missions work] are not openly advertised. Attending such a gathering may help you discover great ministry opportunities and keep you from making costly mistakes. So how are you going to find these events? If you go, how can you make the most of them?

1. Explore. If there’s a country or people group on your heart, ask the most knowledgeable people you know if there is a time and place when those who share your interest get together. Ask them how to get an invitation.

2. Prepare. Similarly, if you plan to attend a missions event and want to make the most of it, try to learn in advance who else may be attending. Consider contacting several of these folks before or at the beginning of the event to see if you can schedule some time together, perhaps for coffee or a meal. (Your treat, of course!)

3. Pay attention. Bring a notebook and be prepared to write down ideas and information you want to remember or pass along to others.

4. Be available. Rather than arriving late, leaving early, or trying to keep up with other responsibilities during the event, make the most of it by being available to pursue the divine opportunities God brings your way! And of course, pray and ask him to do just that.

I would like to add a 5th tip: be humble. We ought to consider ourselves privileged that we can learn and grow in our understanding of God and what He is doing in this world through gospel ministry. The missionator ought not utilize his knowledge as a badge of pride, but as a towel with which he can serve his church and his Master.

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