You announce registration is open for camp, you can’t wait to see who signs up. But, no one does. A couple of weeks pass by and still no one. Panic sets in and you start to wonder, “What’s going on?”
Courtesy of B Rosen/Creative Commons License
Whenever I talk to a client about this situation I ask them, “What’s your communication strategy?” Most people don’t have one and that’s the reason no one responds. If you want people responding to your invitations, and announcements you need to:
One email is never enough. According to The Radicati Group Inc, there are over 205 billion emails are sent and received each day (To read the report click HERE). That’s a lot to compete with.
While you might not be able to compete you can boost your strategy by:
Plan in advance WHAT you will communicate, and WHEN it will go out to your audience. This way you’ll be able to measure the response and effectiveness of each message. This way you’ll be able to tweak your strategy in the future.
Remember that people receive information in a variety of ways. On top of email use texting, and social media. Don’t be afraid to go old school with a bulletin announcement or flyer. Make a video and make your message memorable.
Fortunately, there are experts out there that can help you get your message to your audience. I use Mail Chimp for email and DYM Text for texting. There are plenty of other systems to use. They might cost a few dollars but the return is worth the investment.
Sometimes the best way to get someone’s attention is by literally talking with them. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call the people you want to come to your event or meeting.
Granted you can’t do this for everyone, but it will be your most effective path to getting an answer. If you want to reach more people recruit others to help you with the workload.
Sometimes your voice isn’t enough. That’s when you need to rely on others to help you get your message heard. Find people who can:
The more buzz you create the more people will jump on board. To help your advocates cultivate the buzz give them:
The stronger your advocates, the stronger your message and the stronger your buzz.
The most effective communication strategy is to follow through on your promises. If you are promoting a trip or event make sure it’s an excellent experience. Any meetings should be worth the sacrifice.
While you cannot be perfect every time it’s important that your message matches your actions. If you keep your promises you will build a reputation of someone worth listening to.
Beware of relying on one system. Never stop learning about the ways you can communicate to others. The more effective your message the more you can turn your ministry into a movement.
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