"Impressions are based upon instinct and emotion, not on rational thought or in-depth investigation." Jill Bremer
Like many churches we have what's called the "First Impression Team." The implied value is that we want to make a great first impression. We all know how a first impression impacts our outlook and attitude. We also know we only have one chance to make that first impression.
We have been very blessed to know that EVERY WEEK someone new visits Connections. We want those persons to be:
- Greeted
- Directed
- Treated
- Seated (Thanks to the book Fusion for those four words- the perfect fit for what I've been trying to express for a year.)
The impact of a warm greeting and smile at the door can not be over stated. We want folks to know that we are GENUINELY happy that they have come to Connections. We are blessed by their presence, and they need to know that's how we feel.
All it takes is, "Good morning, and welcome to Connections."
If we know their name, we greet them by name.
If we don't, we ask.
We aren't pushy. We follow their lead.
If they seem to want a hand shake, we sake their hand.
If the keep their hands in their pockets, we don't force it.
But the truth is, if they have come to Connections, they have already made the first move.
It is only right that we reciprocate and extend ourselves to meet, and greet, them.
DIRECTED
We have a group of people called Connectors. Their sole job is to make sure that first time visitor does not feel like an awkward stranger. We are their to direct them to anything they need- a restroom, the children ministry, the cafe, etc. This job, just like greeting is vital.
Not only are we glad to SEE them, we are eager to HELP them.
Connectors are the ones to go this extra step.
TREATED
We want to treat people like honored guests.
This is why we have a cafe and information area.
This is why the coffee is free.
This is why we have snacks.
This is why we have free resources.
This is why we have programs.
All of this is to treat them with love and respect. Holding a coffee provides comfort and safety for many. A program gives them the option to read about our church and find our more. It also let's them look busy if they are feeling out of place.
SEATED
I feel like I'm still trying ot convince the team that this is important.
I know it's a big theatre. I know people can find a seat. But I know there is TREMENDOUS POWER in simply offering.
Just saying, "Can I help you find a seat?" creates yet another point of human interaction.
It conveys, once again, our genuine desire to seve them.
It says we don't take it for granted that you know where to go and what to do.
Nearly everyone will say, "No thanks, I'm fine."
But everyone will have one more point of human interaction.
Ushers are not passe or secondary.
They are the last step in this essential process.
The frightening thing is that we have about 5 minutes to make an impression that can last a life time. We can turn them off, or we can turn them on. We can make them feel out of place, or like this place was made for them. It can be the first step for someone down a path leading to a relationship with God.
The great thing is that it is totally within our power and ability to do these few simple things to really make an awesome first impression.
So what was your first impression of Connections? How can we improve?
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