Saddleback Lake Forest - How do I start a group?

How to Start a Workplace Small Group

Steps to Take:

Pray about joining or leading a workplace small group. Ask God how he wants use you in the workplace.
In addition to this document, read “What are the Requirements to lead a Workplace Small Group?” and “I have questions about starting a workplace small group.”
Read through The Ten Legal Commandments and check out the interactive legal Q&A.
Pray for your employer, your supervisor, your co-workers, and those God will have join your group, as well as those you influence in your organization. A group can be you and two of your co-workers.
Inform your employer or supervisor about your desire to start a workplace group and request permission to start the group off company hours. If you are planning to meet during the lunch hours, ensure that it does not interfere with employee’s schedules and the operations of the business. If you are going to meet off-site you do not need to request approval from your employer or supervisor.
If you are not already a registered Saddleback Church Workplace Small Group, at the Small Group Life Center, click on Start a Workplace Small Group. By registering your group we will be able to better serve you. In addition, you will have access to purchase materials at a discount in our bookstore or at the Pavilion on the weekends. Once you login you will be asked a few questions designed to get us started on setting up your group. Or you can email us at workplace@saddleback.com.
If you are not already receiving it, subscribe to the Weekly Workplace Wisdom, our weekly devotional for the working community.
We have prepared a specific training program for workplace hosts. This eight-segment training curriculum can be done at your convenience over the Internet. The segments range from ten to fifteen minutes in length and are accompanied by notes. This training program was put together just for you to equip you to address the unique situations you may face in facilitating a workplace group. It is easily accessed through the Workplace Media Center.
Personally talk with those whom you think you would like to join your group. Once you gather two or three individuals, you will have the beginning of a group. This will help you get established as you open it up to others.

If people you invite are not interested, respect their wishes and thank them for their consideration. Do not try to convince a person to join your group. If you receive any resistance whatsoever, don’t press it. You are not to judge or pry, just to facilitate a group gathering to learn to be more Christ-like in the workplace.
You may wish to follow-up your conversations with a handwritten note to those who express interest in joining the group.
As a group, decide on the logistics that will work best for your group. When to meet? How often? Where? Meeting on a regular basis is key to continuing as a group. Keep in mind that unplanned work activities may keep everyone from coming every time.
By registering your group with us you will have your own group web page. It is only accessible by members of your group and a few members of church staff on the Small Group Team. We will explain how to use your web page and the valuable tools that are there for you. To access your web page:

Go to https://www.saddleback.com/groupfinder/workgroupstarter.aspx .
You will be asked for your user ID (your email address on record with the church) and the password you use to watch services or tithe online or do other things on the church web site.

Give your employer your best efforts and your exclusive attention and interest during work hours. Be a model of Christ in your worklife.
Keep us updated on your progress and needs. We will be praying for you and your group!
At some point in time, as a small group host you will also want to take Leadership Training (LT-1) if you have not done so already. This workshop is designed to provide you with valuable insights and ideas to help lead more effectively, have more fun with you group, and empower others in you groups to do the same.

The Small Group Blog lists all the events and training for Small Groups at Saddleback Church. Check it out and subscribe!

Areas of Caution:

Don’t:

…Use any of your employer’s “assets” in support of your Workplace small group. This includes all systems and supplies such as copy machines and fax machines, email and the internet.
…Send written invitations to people you have not personally spoken to or have not confirmed interest and commitment to participate.
…Exclude your employer from your plans. Notify your supervisor prior to initiating the formation of a small group. Be sure to request permission prior to using any company facilities or resources such as a DVD player or VCR.
…Let your small group activities interfere with your work and duties to your employer.
…Miss reading the Legal 10 Commandments (make words a hyperlink to content)
…Miss out on the many resources available to you as a Workplace small group leader. Your biggest support will be your coach or Community Leader as they are here for you. Your Community Leader will answer any questions you have, help you with problems and pray for you and your group.
…Turn this into a gossip session
…Turn this into a boss or employer bashing session.