FCL Article: Father's Love Date:3/17/03

Making a Great First Impression

by Alan Hardiman

1.) You won’t get a second chance to make a great first impression.

2.) Your opportunity begins in the parking lot.

3.) Consider the mindset of a first time visitor.

a.) 80% of new people make up their mind about your church before

they hear the pastor preach

b.) Are you easy to find?

c.) Are you clearly marked?

d.) Do the ushers and greeters know where you are?

4.) The people at your sign-in table are your first representatives.

a.) Are they well informed?

b.) Do they know the children?

c.) Are they smiling?

d.) Do they speak well?

e.) Are they well- groomed?

f.) Do they need a breath mint?

g.) First time visitors won’t give your pastor a chance if

you fail them.

5.) Your room must impress parents as well as children.

a.) Is it clean?

b.) Is it bright?

c.) Is it cheerful?

d.) Is it comfortable?

e.) Is it safe?

f.) Is there music playing?

g.) Are there any games or distractions?

h.) Is there an area where only ministers are allowed?

i.) Is there a theme?

6.) It doesn’t take much to make big improvements.

a.) A new coat of paint.

b.) Hang some posters.

c.) Paint a mural.

d.) Hang stuff from the ceiling.

e.) Have some interactive stuff.

f.) Create a stage area.

g.) Buy or build a puppet stage.

h.) Get a message sign.