How To See From A Church's Visitor's Perspective
Seeing things from a church visitor's perspective can be a valuable exercise for anyone involved in the church, whether they are a member, volunteer, or staff member.
This article will outline the ways that can be taken to understand and enhance the visitor experience.
By putting ourselves in their shoes, seeking feedback, conducting mock visits, observing visitors, seeking input from staff and volunteers, and giving them space, we can gain a better understanding of their needs and create a welcoming environment for all visitors.
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Put Yourself in Their Shoes
To truly understand the experience of a first-time visitor, it is important to imagine yourself as a first-time visitor and try to think about what you would like to experience and what might make you feel uncomfortable or intimidated. Some key points to consider include:
Imagining the experience of a first-time visitor.
Reflecting on what feels uncomfortable for them.
Taking mental notes on what they might expect or desire from a church.
Ask for Feedback
Ask visitors for their thoughts and feedback about their experience at the church. This can help you to identify areas for improvement and to make changes that will enhance the visitor experience, such as:
Requesting feedback via mail, email, or surveys.
Engaging in conversation with visitors after the service.
Seeking details on their experience and suggestions for improvement.
Conduct a Mock Visit
Take a walk through the church building and grounds as if you were a first-time visitor, and note any areas that could be improved to make the experience more welcoming and inviting. This way can be approached creatively, such as:
Taking a day off and visiting the church as a first-time visitor.
Going incognito to experience how people treat unfamiliar faces.
Observing how visitors are received without the church know.
Observe Visitors
Pay attention to the reactions and behaviors of visitors during church services and events. Do they seem comfortable and engaged, or do they seem unsure or disconnected? By making careful observations, we can gauge their comfort level and engagement. Consider the following:
Sitting in service and observing first-time visitors.
Noting their facial expressions and reactions.
Making quick notes on how they appear to feel during their visit.
Seek Input from Staff and Volunteers
Talk to staff and volunteers who have direct interaction with visitors, and ask them for their observations and suggestions. Key points to consider are:
Talking to volunteers and staff in the lobby or as ushers.
Inquiring about their perception of first-time visitors.
Encouraging feedback and ideas for improvement.
Give Them Space
You might really want to approach them but remember to do it moderately. Don’t scare them by approaching too much. We don’t want them to be scared and not come back. Finding the right balance between engagement and giving them space is crucial. Remember the following:
Approach visitors moderately, without being too pushy.
Avoid scaring them away with excessive attention.
Understand that only a few first-timers will become official members.
Look at Your Website
Potential visitors often check out a church's website before attending worship services. The church's online presence, including its website and social media, can shape its perception. Consider the following:
Ensure the website makes a positive first impression.
Evaluate the user-friendliness and navigation of the website.
Pay attention to the church's social media presence and messaging.
More Ideas
The atmosphere of church services should be inviting, and the language used should make visitors feel welcome.
Ensure the language used is inclusive and welcoming.
Avoid creating an atmosphere of condemnation.
Strive to make visitors feel comfortable and accepted.
Small gestures can play a significant role in creating a positive first impression.
Provide visitor cards or gift bags to first-time visitors.
Encourage pastors to personally greet and connect with visitors.
Offer a warm and personalized welcome to new attendees.
To integrate first-time visitors into the church community, it is important to inform them about upcoming events.
Extend personal invitations to events such as Easter, Christmas, youth, and kids' events.
Ensure visitors are aware of the various events happening on the church campus.
Create opportunities for new attendees to engage and participate in community activities.
Only a small percentage of first-time church visitors become regular members. To increase the likelihood of visitors returning, the church should aim to create a good first impression, be warm and authentic, and welcome new visitors to its upcoming events.