Are You Giving New Students A Good First Impression?

The space was perfect, but getting to it was going to be a problem. Unless you had been to our parish before finding the entrance to where we would host our high school program wasn’t clear. We all know that coming to church for the first time can be intimidating for anyone, especially a teenager.

As a church, we addressed the issue by creating better signage and consistently communicated where people should go. But, helping people find the place is half the battle, in addition to proper signage you need to affirm that people have made the right decision by coming to your programs. That’s where you have to focus on FIRST IMPRESSIONS.

I don’t know how often you think about first impressions but it’s essentially important when it comes to youth ministry. If you do not connect with the teens walking in through the door the chances of them coming back are low. That’s why it’s important to look at the front door of your youth space and answer the following questions:

WHAT DO THEY SEE WHEN THEY FIRST WALK IN?

How your space looks matter and while you might not have the budget for really cool stuff you do need to make sure you are ready to go at least 15 minutes before you open the doors. That means cleaning the space and having where everything needs to go.

Make sure lights are on, food is out and that your team is there to help you. If a teen walks into a place and sees you scurrying around setting stuff up they are going to think that they made the mistake. They might feel a little embarrassed or even put off and that’s not how you want someone to feel coming in for the first time.

WHO WILL THEY INITIALLY MEET?

Are they greeted by a warm and welcoming face or is it just a table with nametags and a marker? Teens are walking in with the question, “Do I know anyone here?” Even if they do, having someone at the door to greet them:

• Diffuses any negative emotions they might be holding
• Reassures them that they are in the right place
• Addresses any questions they might have about the program or ministry

If a teenager is there for the first time you can also help them meet some of the other teens. Ask them if they are new and if they know anyone who might be coming. If the answer is no then you can introduce them to their small group leaders and other teens in the ministry. Having a greeter provides the opportunity to ease them into the life-changing experience you are about to offer them.

IS IT CLEAR WHAT THEY SHOULD DO NEXT?

When people arrive what is the first thing they should do? Should they:

• Sign in and make a nametag?
• Find someone to talk to?
• Grab a slice of pizza?

It’s not always clear for the first time attendee and that’s essential because like you, they want to make a good first impression. Having someone at the door can definitely help with this, but make sure it’s clear by putting up signage. If someone registers ahead of time give them a call or send them an email with what they can expect.

First impressions aren’t the only thing that matter when it comes to creating an irresistible environment but they are significant. If you want teens coming back and letting down their guard, make sure they know they are in the right place as soon as they walk in.

How do you create a welcoming environment for teenagers who join you for the first time?

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