If you’re a more “seasoned” pastor, it’s time to deal with a (potentially harsh) reality – there is no more Yellow Pages. Yes, I know Yellow Pages still exist, and there are online versions, but the days of someone opening up the book and looking at the church page for the best ads are over (in my opinion).
They have been replaced by two things: your website/social media and your people.
YOUR WEBSITE/SOCIAL MEDIA: Think about what you do when you’re in the mood to try out a new restaurant. You go online, see what’s out there, and look at photos – and potentially a menu. You will look at video, if they have it (and you should), so any videos posted had better represent well. Here’s a modern-day truth… Online services are not just for shut-ins and those on vacation – they are your front door.
YOUR PEOPLE: They have always been your best option. People will sometimes “church shop” on their own, especially after moving to a new community, but they are much more likely to check out a church if a friend recommends it. MUCH, MUCH more likely.
We live in a world where information is at our fingertips. We are also used to our churches – they are a part of our “normal” lives. Between those two things, it’s easy to forget that most people DON’T know our church, or anything about it. If they’re potentially going to be impacted by the church, they’re going to have to be introduced to it in some way. Make sure that your online presence represents you well (but realistically). Make sure that ALL of your people have at least a basic idea of how to invite someone to church in a non-creepy way. And make sure that you’re praying for the people that God is waiting to put into your care.
“It is an elitist attitude to assume everyone knows about your church.” – Thom Rainer
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