What should one ask when one is new? That was the question put to existing Church University Chaplains during the course of three regional days held in July 2013 with the results set out below. These are questions it might be helpful to have in your mind during the first six months or so of your appointment. They also are worth revisiting from time to time later on to ensure your understanding, of what will undoubtedly be a fast-changing organization, is still up to date. Some could well be asked of different individuals, followed by the interesting exercise of comparing the responses received. Some are not to be asked directly at all, at least not if you desire something approximating to the truth! You will need to apply your own judgement in the matter.
- How best can I get known quickly and widely?
- Where do staff and students tend to congregate?
- What are the possible modes of communication at my disposal?
- What are the key dates I need to be aware of?
- How do I advertise events and activities?
- What already exists with which I can join in?
- What are the key occasions when life of the University and the Chaplaincy intersect?
- What is the nature of the relationship between the University and local Diocese?
- What are the key issues facing the Institution?
- Do I have a current organisational chart of university structures and decision-making?
- Who are the keepers of power in fact and how does power flow around the institution?
- What expectations do others have of my role?
- Who will be my key advocates for what I am seeking to achieve?
- What was my predecessor like and how am I different?
- What options do I have if I become aware of something that’s unethical?
- To what extent is the Anglican (Church of England) ethos down to me?
No thoughts yet on “Questions to ask when new”