Welcome to our series on crafting the most effective church guest follow-up process! This article focuses on the six most effective tools for connecting with first-time guests.
After gathering guests' contact information, the next step is genuine connection. At Text In Church, we've learned a lot from working with thousands of pastors. Here are the six most effective tools for church guest follow-up:
1. Call Them
Within the first week, call your guests to thank them for attending. Keep the conversation short unless they wish to continue talking. If they don’t answer, leave a voicemail to show you care.
Example:
“Hello! This is Jason from City Church. Thank you for joining us on Sunday! If you have any questions, we’d love to help. Hope to see you again this weekend.”
2. Email Them
Send an email within the first week thanking them for their visit. Include links to your website, Facebook page, or podcast, and end with a question to encourage a response. Follow up with an email once a week for the next six weeks.
Example:
“Hey James! I’m glad you visited City Church on Sunday. Connect with us on Facebook @CityChurch or check out our podcast, City Church Chats. Are you a coffee drinker?”
- Jason Jones, City Church
3. Text Them
Text messages have a 98% open rate, making them a highly effective follow-up tool. Send a simple thank you and continue with a reminder text on Fridays or Saturdays.
Example:
“Hi James- We hope to see you tomorrow @ City Church! ~ Pastor Jason”
4. Gift Them
Everyone appreciates a thoughtful gift. Whether it’s a coffee mug or a Starbucks gift card, make sure your guests feel valued. You can give these at the welcome center or deliver them to their doorstep.
5. Mail Them
A handwritten note can make a significant impact. Send a quick message in the first week or two after their visit.
Example:
“Hey James! Thanks for joining us on Sunday. We hope to see you this weekend. Let us know if you have any questions or prayer requests.”
- Jason Jones, City Church
6. Facebook Them
Use Facebook to connect with your guests. Send a friend request from a staff member they met, and invite them to join your groups or like your page after a few weeks.
Follow-Up Duration, Frequency, and Content
Duration: Follow up with guests for about six weeks to help establish a new habit of attending church.
Frequency: Contact them once or twice a week to stay front of mind.
Content: Keep your messages personal and engaging, and always include a call to action.
Following these six steps over six weeks will ensure your guests feel valued and connected. Happy connecting!
For more details on crafting effective follow-up messages and to access our pre-built templates, visit the Text In Church Academy.
