I sipped my drink and looked around the room. Warm conversation, laughter and hugs were everywhere. But there I sat at a table by myself. I made eye contact with several folks, looking for someone to connect with. No one bit.
I sipped my drink and looked around the room. Warm conversation, laughter and hugs were everywhere. But there I sat at a table by myself. I made eye contact with several folks, looking for someone to connect with. No one bit.
Awkward. Alone. Invisible. At a church.
When Fishhook partners with a client on secret shopping, we visit church services undercover as first-time guests. We soak in the guest experience from start to finish and later unpack our findings to church leadership. Nearly all clients tell us that they are a friendly and welcoming congregation - and most of them truly try to be - but it doesn’t always feel that way to newcomers.
So what can you do to make sure your guests feel welcome and included? Here are a few suggestions:
- Welcome Messages: Have tailored messages for newcomers in your printed materials, verbal announcements and signage. Thank them for coming. Tell them where to go to get a cup of coffee or connect with others. Let them know if there is something they should pick up after service. Make next steps obvious!
- Make a Culture Change: Churches often have hospitality teams or greeters on the lookout for first-time guests. This is great, but it’s not enough. Your entire congregation should understand the value of genuinely welcoming and engaging newcomers. Teach them how to do it. It's not intuitive or easy for everyone.
- Designate a Spot: Have an easy-to-spot, welcoming area specifically for hospitality and connecting. Make sure your newcomers know about it and can find it easily. Your regular attenders should specifically be looking for those who might be new or not know anyone.
- Follow-Up: Are you thanking your guests for coming? How are you reaching out after they have visited?
What would you add to this list? Thanks, in advance, for sharing!
