Mark L. Waltz, First Impressions: Creating Wow Experiences In Your Church. Group Publishing, 2004.
Sequels:
Referenced in: Welcoming and New Member Ministry
LifeandLeadership.com Summary
The author makes a conscientious effort to preserve the heart of the gospel while applying “customer service” and “customer satisfaction” principles to church greeting and assimilation. Some readers may have to look beyond his consumer-oriented approach, but there is a lot to appreciate in this book. It is highly motivational in helping churches see the impact of the small choices they make on a week-to-week basis. See the sequels, Lasting Impressions: From Visiting to Belonging, and How to Wow Your Church Guests.
From the Publisher
Before a service even begins, first-time guests usually decide whether they’ll return to your church. This means church leaders need to create no-fail; practical ways to ensure a visitor’s first impression is the best impression. Author Mark Waltz shares the strategies that work in his church—and takes “greeting” to a whole new level. When guests feel valued, they will return. And when they do, they’ll have the opportunity to experience Jesus’ love. Let visitors know “You matter to God, so you matter to us.”
Adapt these practical ideas to your church’s unique setting, and it won’t be long before everyone feels welcome: Learn how to create a church that’s welcoming to guests with strategies on: a developing senior leadership a traffic flow a the walk to the door a to shake hands or not # a directional signs or people? Address the philosophy, strategy and implementation of a ministry that welcomes first-time and returning guests.
Gain sure-fire, practical ways to make the first impression the best impression.
About the Author
Mark Waltz is a unifying force at Granger Community Church where as pastor of connections, he oversees adult relational connections, including groups, guest services and volunteer strategies. Mark’s book, First Impressions: Creating Wow Experiences in Your Church, addresses the issues of guest attendance growth and volunteer development, offering strategies for making high-impact first impressions. His new book, Lasting Impressions, picks up where First Impressions leaves off. How do you help visitors to your church find a place of genuine belonging?
Mark’s ministry expertise is complemented by his marketplace experience, which includes retail management, employment training and recruitment. These combined experiences make Mark a sought-after trainer and consultant for churches desiring to improve their serve to their guests. Mark has occasionally tailored his presentations to address guest relations in the private sector where relationships are the bottom-line to success.
His priorities before pastoring, writing or training are his wife of 27 years, Laura and their daughter, Olivia. A trip to the mall, a night at the movies, or a week at the beach are a few of the favorite pastimes Mark enjoys with them.
***For additional information on this resource, including reviews, click the bookstore links. Check the reference at page top or the links below for resource guides on related topics.***
See Resources on Over 100 Areas of Ministry Leadership: