When a guest visits your church and decides to share their information, they are opening the door for connection. If you believe every guest matters, then you need to put in the work to catch them at the door and let them know they’re welcome back. The plans you put in place now will directly impact who returns after significant events like Christmas and Easter. Take every opportunity to welcome newcomers and maximize the chance for everyone who walks through your doors to hear your message–again and again.
Every interaction you have with visitors before, during, and after their visit will impact the fragile beginning of your relationship with them. Here’s what you can do:
Step 1: Make guests feel welcome from the moment they walk in
When a guest visits your church and decides to share their information, they are opening the door for connection. If you believe every guest matters, then you need to put in the work to catch them at the door and let them know they’re welcome back. The plans you put in place now will directly impact who returns after significant events like Christmas and Easter. Take every opportunity to welcome newcomers and maximize the chance for everyone who walks through your doors to hear your message–again and again.
Every interaction you have with visitors before, during, and after their visit will impact the fragile beginning of your relationship with them. Here’s what you can do:
Step 2: Help visitors initiate follow-up
To follow up with visitors, you need their information. However, it’s not just about gathering data; it’s about making visitors feel comfortable and willing to share.
- Provide Multiple Ways to Share Information: Whether it’s a connection card where worship takes place, a QR code that links to an online form, or a digital kiosk, ensure that there are several ways for visitors to provide their information. Make it easy and convenient for a visitor to make the choice to connect.
- Explain Why You Want Their Information: Visitors may hesitate to share their contact details if they don’t know why you’re asking. Be clear about the purpose – to welcome them, answer their questions, and help them feel at home. It’s up to the leaders on platform to communicate that this is much more than an automated system.
- Offer a Small Gift: A small gesture like a gift bag, Bibles for those without, t-shirts, or a $5 gift card can encourage visitors to fill out a connection card. Providing a gift also creates opportunities for you to interact with your guests.
Step 3: Follow Up with visitors in a genuine and personal way
Once you have a visitor’s information, it’s time to follow up. As with anything you do, you’ll want to infuse your mission into how you contact visitors. Here’s how:
- Reach Out Promptly: Don’t let too much time pass before contacting visitors each week. A quick email or text message within 24-48 hours shows that you care and that their visit matters to you.
- Be Personal and Sincere: Avoid generic templates. Instead, personalize each message. Mention specific things from their visit when you can, or invite them to an upcoming event. Let them know that you see them as individuals, not numbers.
- Offer Opportunities to Connect: Provide ways for them to get involved, whether that’s a newcomer’s lunch, a small group invitation, or a list of events. Give them a reason and a date to come back, and make sure they know they are welcome.
When a visitor shares their information with you, they expect a follow-up. You will not offend or bombard them by reaching out. It’s not just a nice gesture; it’s an essential step in building relationships. Without a system in place for these follow-ups, you may be missing a valuable opportunity to welcome visitors back and make them feel like a part of your church family.
It’s easy to get caught up in the many ministries and programs within a church, but never forget the ministry of pursuing every guest who walks through your doors. Building meaningful relationships with visitors is one of the most direct ways y ou can impact your community and grow your church family. Start now by creating a culture that welcomes visitors, stewards their information, and follows up in a way that makes them feel truly valued. Your efforts today will help ensure that your guests feel welcomed and are excited to return, not just for holidays but for weekly fellowship.
