Podcast Episode #157

Discussion about guest communication cards and so much more—including my allergies.

Some highlights from today's episode include:

• Drop-in visits to church guests have become exceptions rather than the rule.
• Some guest cards look more like a census survey than an info card.
• The bare minimum for guest info cards: first name, email address, and prayer requests.
• The lower the barrier for guests, the more likely they are to return information cards.
• I speculate churches would double or triple the number of guest cards turned in just by simplifying the info on the card.

The secrets to getting guests to fill out and return info cards are:

• There needs to be time to complete it
• Guests fear a visit & the motive
• Phone info is held most closely
• Most churches overcomplicate the guest cards
• Less is more
• Use digital registration for guests if possible
• Have a place for prayer requests
• Don’t make guests stand out
• Consider offering a small gift in return for the card

Episode Sponsors
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School is a dynamic community of learners who are serious about ministry preparation biblical studies theological reflection and cultural engagement. Their faculty are gifted men and women who minister as much through research and writing as through local church involvement but their primary ministry is teaching and caring for students. Find out more about TEDS at Divinity.TIU.edu.

Vanderbloemen Search Group is the premier pastor search firm dedicated to helping churches and ministries build great teams. They’ve helped hundreds of churches just like yours find their church staff and are uniquely geared to help you discern who God is calling to lead your church. Find out more about Vanderbloemen Search Group by visiting WeStaffTheChurch.com.
Feedback
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Resources

• Church of the Highlands
• I Will
• I Am a Church Member