Questions and Lessons Learned:

• How long will it take for a group to form effectively?
It takes time for the groups to transform into a community based on trust and relationships (see stages of a small group below). Initially the members will view the group as interesting and somewhat helpful. In the space of a few weeks, assuming the members commit the time and energy required, the group will begin to significantly impact the progress of each member including their attitudes, motivation, spiritual growth, etc.

• Is the C3G format helpful for everyone?
There will be some people who try out the concept but won’t stay, largely because of the discomfort associated with either the accountability or the close and personal format (versus large networking meetings). We know this program will not be for everyone. But for those who have found the career search journey to be lonely, exhausting, and/or not very effective and would benefit from having a community of believers to collaborate with and to support them (and visa versa) in this process, that is whom C3G is intended to serve.

• How do we add members to a group?
New members can be added to an existing group but should not be done with regularity. The relationship and trust developed between members is vital to the success of the group and this takes time to establish. It is likely better to start a new group, where possible, than to continuously add new members to existing groups.

• How can the group continue to meet as some of the members find employment?
As members of a group become employed, the challenge becomes finding a convenient meeting time for all members (including the employed members). If it proves too difficult to find a convenient time, it’s better to pick a time that all of the un-employed members can make and have the employed members join whenever they are able. In addition, the employed members should be encouraged to meet individually with the other members to ensure that they are being supported and encouraged throughout.

• How much of a commitment is required of each member?
In order to be most effective, members must be proactive in their support and commitment. A two-hour meeting every week, by itself, is not that helpful. The most effective group’s members will be proactively trying to network on behalf of the others, determining how they can help the others with challenges (perhaps writing a resume) or any other activities that convert this from a group to a real “Christ Centered Community”. We would expect each member to spend approximately 4 hours per week associated with his or her C3G group in some form.

• How important is the spiritual component of this program?
Unemployment represents a unique opportunity for God to get our attention and a real invitation to grow in both our knowledge of and relationship with Him! It is imperative that the groups keep the focus on the spiritual part of this journey. If all we accomplish is returning members to work, we have not only missed the opportunity to help them grow closer to our Savior, we have also fed the problem because a busy work life can actually draw people further away from Christ.

• Does this replace the need to attend Networking meetings, etc?
No! There are typically plentiful resources and networking meetings in most communities that serve the purpose of educating people on the job search or inspiring, or connecting people via networking. The C3G concept is not intended to replace or compete with these great resources. In fact, we believe that getting individuals connected with a caring, supportive small group will actually enhance their use of these types of programs and resources.

• How does C3G help a family?
If the unemployed spouse can learn to confront his/her frustrations and fears, he can better lead his family through this difficult time of interruption in employment. C3G can help promote communication in the family. We encourage the groups to involve families in periodic social gatherings.

• Can C3G be used to reach those who are not church members?
We encourage you to use this as both a support vehicle for your congregation members and as an outreach where possible. Your own church members who participate or volunteer will exemplify love and compassion that will strongly influence those who are not members.

• Can C3G help get jobs?
Yes, although it is not the singular purpose of this program to secure employment. We believe that through this Christ centered support, career searchers will both grow in their relationship with Jesus and will become more effective in the career search process.

• Who leads each group?
The establishment of a formal group leader is discouraged because it places the organizational responsibility on one person. As a consequence, the group's identity matches the "leaders". With weekly rotation of the facilitator, the group continues to belong to all the members equally.

• Are groups separated by gender?
Most commonly, yes. Communication of personal matters is difficult enough; mixing genders would make this more difficult. Some may choose to mix genders and as long as there is recognition of the difference in group dynamics, this can be workable.

• Where and when do the groups meet?
It is best to have meetings in the early morning or early evening to minimize the impact on time required for other networking opportunities. The groups elect their own meeting place based entirely on convenience for the members. Most groups choose to meet at restaurants, some in offices; however, we discourage using private homes since someone is burdened with "picking up" each week.

• What happens if I can't attend a meeting?
Absentees are encouraged to contact their group members by phone or drop a note. Regular attendance will be a key success factor for the group to be most effective.

• What do groups talk about?
Whatever is important at the time. To keep meetings focused, a suggested agenda is provided and individual agendas are recommended.

• What about spouse support groups?
A great idea and it should be recognized that the spouse relationship is significantly tested during unemployment. Any resources/seminars that can be made available to serve this need will be helpful. In addition, church sponsored career seminars, financial seminars, networking classes and more would be useful. No project of this nature, however, should be considered until a leader within the groups is identified.

• Are there any fees associated with joining a group?
No.

• How can my church start a C3G program?
Hold an informational meeting and establish a list of volunteers who will respond to the needs of the unemployed and can help the groups get started. Then invite the unemployed to participate. Additional information can be found at: www.crossroadscareer.org

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