Here is a short list of some time-tested best practices (and actions to avoid) to help reach out to your community and achieve maximum growth for your ministry.
DO’S:
DO have clear, prominent, welcoming signage.
DO strategically place greeters throughout your building, parking area and walkways.
DO personally greet every visitor.
DO make sure greeters are friendly and knowledgeable about the faith community, the building and ministries offered.
DO follow-up with visitors within 2-3 days.
DO have a welcome packet for visitors with information on groups/ministries, volunteer opportunities, next steps etc.
DO collect contact information including information about interests and preferred method of communication.
DO have well-identified ushers who know where classrooms and restrooms are located.
DO learn people’s names and remember them.
DO make a good impression –make sure the website is up-to-date and facilities are clean.
DO learn more about visitors’ interests and where they are in their spiritual journey.
DO personalize event/group recommendations: match visitor interests with what your faith community offers.
DO help visitors make new connections: introduce visitors to regular members.
DON’TS:
DON’T be pushy – Let visitors join at their pace not yours. Remember, in most cases, visitors initiated a relationship with you and your congregation.
DON’T introduce first-time visitors during the service. This may be intimidating to some, and many people don’t enjoy being “in the spotlight.”
DON’T assume that one welcoming or communication method fits every visitor
DON’T automatically join visitors to your members mailing, emailing or call list.
DON’T use “insider language” when talking to visitors. This creates unnecessary barriers.
DON’T be sloppy: make sure that sermons, presentations, and lighting are well planned and organized.
Source: Ministry Tech
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