First impressions make all the difference in the world when you’re trying to reach unchurched people.
And one of the most often-overlooked areas of first impression is the person answering your church’s phone.
I recently ran across a great article on this very subject from Kerry Mackey over at Street to the Seat and thought I’d share it today:
Here is a simple first impression most persons never even think about. Who’s answering your phone. Nine times out of ten the person answering your church phone makes or breaks the impression.
Not only who, but how they answer the phone is very important. And if no one answers then the voice message is just as important.
My wife, Stephanie has been the voice for Hope Crossing these past several months. If you call her you’ll hear these words, “HI, this is Stephanie with Hope Crossing Community Church, how may I help you today.”
Couple of tips:
- be cheerful
- welcoming
- courteous
- genuinely be helpful
- know all your ministries
- know the contact information for each ministry
- be able to answer basic information about each ministry
- know what is happening this week at your church… this month… and over the summer
- know who to direct calls to from local media stations
- know your service times and what is provided for each age group at each time.
- know the numbers of all your local support agencies so you can assist in connecting persons with outside help if your church doesn’t provide a particular need.
- know local police and fire station numbers in case of an emergency.
- know your church address and how to give basic directions to your facility.
One last thought:
- Who answers your phone during service times?
- People will want to talk when they think you might be there so having someone available during a service time might be of help.
These are just a few thoughts.
And great thoughts they are, Kerry – thanks for the reminder!
One final question/suggestion before I go….
When was the last time you “randomly” called your church office (or had a friend do so) to evaluate how well you’re doing at phone first impressions?
P.S. For more tips on honoring God by how you’re greeting, directing, treating and seating new people, check out The Assimilation Seminar.
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