First Impressions

Making a first impression is vital on first time visitors to your church and important to the pastor and the congregation. But you have to make sure you’re not being remembered for the wrong reasons.  In today’s world you never know what connections you could gain from the person you invite to church at the grocery store, in a department store, or on your job.

There are five important things to remember when approaching new attenders for the first time. These can make a difference in people wanting to attend your church and people staying away from your church.

-When speaking with a visitor for the first time don’t assume anything.
If you think someone is pregnant upon first meeting them, don’t say that-just don’t. Don’t call someone sir or ma’am if there is any chance of mistaking their gender. Don’t yell when speaking to an elderly person because you think they may be hard of hearing. The list goes on and on. I learned the hard way one time by asking which Sunday School class a person wanted to go in and mentioned the ages of each class to help them make their decision. I found out that day that even trying to be helpful can make the wrong impression on a first time visitor. Thankfully they liked my preaching and stayed on with me. So don't take anything for granted because looks can be deceiving.

-When making a visitor feel welcome don’t act crazy.

The first time you meet someone sets the tone for how they think of you from that moment on. If you are having an off day don't start telling all the problems you have with the church, pastor, or staff the first time you meet them. Smile, make them welcome, and worship the Lord. As Forrest Gump said, " Stupid is as stupid does." I had one greeter at one of my churches that ran me down to every new person that came through the door. Needless to say, the ones that stayed thought he was a nut. Their first bad impression of our church was not of me, but him. He didn't stay to long after that.

-When meeting a visitor for the first time don't crowd them.

Personal hygiene is very important these days, and you don’t want someone you just met to think of you as the bad breath woman or man. Again, let them know you appreciate them being with you, but don't put them in a awkward position. Some people are not huggers and don't want to be put in that position. Be friendly, but give them their space as well.

-When a visitor has an imperfection don’t stare.

Let’s say the visitor you just met has a mole smack dab in the middle of their forehead. They are perfectly aware of it I’m sure, so no need to stare at it to make it more known. Or if they have some type of physical limitation don't state the obvious. Just accept them for who they are and welcome them into the local family of God.

-When introducing yourself to a visitor don’t tell your life story.

Although this visitor may seem like a great listener and wants some more information about your church, they probably don’t want to hear about how your loved ones mistreated you, you lost your job, and your dog died all in one week. Go write a country song instead.