3 big mistakes in follow up
For many, the next few months will be spent on major efforts in summer ministry events. We expend a lot of time and energy making sure that our events connect with our communities. Unfortunately, after the excitement of the event is over, we drop the ball on follow up. Let me unpack three big mistakes often made regarding follow up.
1. Not having a plan
The first mistake that many churches make with follow up is not having a plan. In many cases, follow up is not even on the radar. Scripture says that where there is no vision, the people will perish (Proverbs 29:18). It is a good principle to keep in mind for follow up. It is important to paint a picture of what this should look like before an event and implement it after the event. It will not happen without intentionality and hard work. If these steps are not taken, oftentimes a major opportunity for connecting and inviting families back to our church will have been missed.
The most effective plan starts with thoughtful planning and enough lead time so that you can implement it during and after your event. The planning for follow up needs to be closely integrated with the planning you are doing for the event. You need to have your follow up team ready to go and working in tandem to be prepared to take the baton following the event.
2. Not involving others
The second mistake that many churches make is not involving others. There are many members of the church who would love to take part in the event behind the scenes. Follow up is not a solo sport - it is best done with a team.
Pray and ask the Lord to show you others who would be blessed in furthering the Kingdom in this way. This group would be engaging those who attended an event. Perhaps these people have the gifts of hospitality or administration, or just a heart for connecting with others. They are motivated, outgoing, and relate easily to others.
Once you have a small follow up team assembled, encourage them to reach out to the event guests by writing cards, assembling gifts, making phone calls, sending texts, and even making visits.
These people might include:
People who are working and have limited time to give
Retirees who are traveling but have some freedom to help
People who are homebound
3. Not following through
And finally, the third mistake that many churches make is that there is no follow through. Even if churches make some attempt to follow up, it is very superficial and often does not happen. Herb Miller from EvangelismCoach.org shares that church visitor retention is highest when done within 48 hours. He goes on to state that “retention rates of a first-time visitor is 34%, 2nd time visitors 51%, and 3rd time is 78% in fast-growing churches.”
There needs to be a plan for follow up to include more than one touch. It needs to include a series of communications and personal connections that invite guests back to church or another upcoming event. It needs to involve people who show genuine desire in building a personal relationship with them and letting them know of opportunities that fit their needs and interests.
I hope that you will consider these three mistakes and ask yourself, how you can make sure that this year’s follow up is intentional (with a plan), inclusive (to build a team), and impactful (to be timely)!
Sandy Coelho serves as lay leadership development coordinator at the Baptist Churches of New England.
