How to Get Visitors to “Stick” with Your Church: A Proven Process
Walking into a new environment can be intimidating—especially when it’s a church. That’s why we’ve developed a “New Here” process designed to make visitors feel seen, valued, and connected from the moment they arrive. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about creating a lasting connection that turns visitors into part of the family.
Here’s how we do it and why it works.
Before Service: The First Connection
Before a visitor even walks through the doors, their experience begins. Our team is intentional about creating a welcoming atmosphere that takes the guesswork out of their first visit.
Signage and Parking: Clear, inviting signs let visitors know they’re in the right place. Turning on their hazard lights signals our Parking Lot Hosts, who guide them to priority parking near the entrance.
Related resources: A-Frame Signs, Feather Flags.
Why It Works: It’s an immediate signal that they’re important to us. This personal touch eases anxiety and ensures their first impression is a positive one.
Warm Hand-Offs: Once parked, a host personally greets them, walks them into the building, and introduces them to a Connect Host in front of our neon “Citizen of Heaven” sign.
Related resource: Custom Neon Signage.
Why It Works: Hand-offs between team members eliminate gaps where someone could feel lost or overlooked.
The Connect Card and Gift Bag: Visitors fill out a quick Connect Card, then receive a gift bag, including a coupon for a free coffee on their next visit.
Why It Works: It’s about hospitality. The card helps us stay in touch, and the gift is a simple way to say, “We’re glad you’re here.”
During and After Service: Building Relationships
Once the service begins, the experience doesn’t stop—it just shifts focus.
In-Service Introductions: Our stage host points out the Connect Card in seat pockets and explains how it can be exchanged for a gift.
Connect Room: After service, visitors can exchange their card in the Connect Room near the main auditorium, where our team is ready to answer questions and provide resources.
Making It Personal: Follow-Up Videos
Here’s where it gets really personal. After the service, we send a customized video to every new family or individual who attended. The speaker from that Sunday records these quick messages, addressing the visitor by name and welcoming them personally.
Why It Works: A personal video is unexpected and memorable. It shows visitors they’re not just another number—we see them and want them to feel like part of the family.
Continued Connection: The Monday Text
By Monday evening, we follow up with a thoughtful text that includes helpful links to resources, including:
We also invite them back for the next Sunday service.
Why It Works: It’s a gentle reminder of their experience with us and an easy way for them to take their next step when they’re ready.
Invitation to Open House
Every couple of weeks, we host an Open House—a chance for new attendees to dive deeper into who we are, meet our pastors, and discover opportunities to get involved.
Why It Works: Community grows when connections are personal and intentional. This event creates a relaxed environment where questions are welcomed, and relationships can flourish.
Why This Process Works
At Citizen Church, our “New Here” process isn’t just a series of steps; it’s a philosophy rooted in hospitality, intentionality, and follow-through. Here’s why it works:
Clarity: Every touchpoint is designed to guide, not overwhelm. From signage to follow-up, there’s no guessing about where to go or what’s next.
Personalization: Whether it’s a warm greeting, a personalized video, or an invitation to Open House, we make sure every visitor feels uniquely valued.
Ease of Engagement: By providing clear next steps, we make it easy for visitors to deepen their connection with us—on their terms.
