A follow-up strategy for visitors is important if your church attendance has declined or you’re looking to attract new members. A follow-up strategy lets visitors know that they are valued and increases the likelihood that they may return or tell others about your church.
When someone walks into a new church, they are looking to feel a sense of belonging, regardless if it’s a one-time visit or they plan to return. You want to ensure that you’ve created a welcoming environment in the church and that you take the opportunity to reach out to your new guests.
Ask for Contact Information
Ask visitors for their contact information in the form of a guest card. It invites visitors to give their contact information only if they want to.
On the guest card, ask visitors to indicate their preferred method of contact. Some people prefer mail or phone, while others like emails or text messages. Include your social media channels or other channels where guests can leave reviews or feedback.
You may ask them to write why they attended your church. This information can be helpful in knowing who you should follow up with. For example, guests who are local may be attendees you prioritize reaching out to.
If you’re not comfortable with asking new members for their contact information, you can verbally invite them to the next service or put together a packet for first-time guests. Ushers or greeters can pass out welcome packets. Alternatively, you can place them at entrances or exits.
What to Include in a Church Visitor Follow-Up Message
It is best to follow up soon while your visitors’ experience at your church is still top of mind, within a week if possible.
Importantly, thank them for coming with a personalized message. Do not automate your message. You might ask for feedback or give them some information on the church that is pertinent to them, especially if they had some questions when they visited. If you had a conversation with the visitor, use that to establish a connection in that message.
Invite them to an upcoming church event or ask them to return for a sermon series. Give the visitor clear and concise next steps that they can follow if they want more information. Of course, make sure they know how to become a member.
If your follow-up doesn’t work the first time, that is okay. You can message them again, but make sure to keep track of how often you are reaching out.
Following up with church visitors can be very helpful in increasing attendance if you do it correctly. In addition to outreach to visitors, creating a robust social media strategy, hosting family-friendly events, and sending invitations are important methods for attracting visitors to your church. Don’t forget to ask for feedback from your congregation. Their insights can be valuable in increasing church attendance and re-engaging members.
We hope that you’re now able to put together a terrific plan for following up with new church visitors and increasing attendance.
Here at ChurchPlaza, our purpose is to be a trustworthy and helpful resource to church leaders. In addition, we provide the world’s highest quality church chairs and furniture. We look forward to serving your team and congregation.
