Welcoming a Guest

You’ve heard the expression “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Well, here are some suggestions that will make that first impression a good one. In a word, “SMILE”.

Say “hello.”
Make the first move. Initiate the conversation. “Hello” works very well.

Make eye contact.
Show by your eye contact that you are focused on them. Looking around the room communicates that you are thinking about other things or that you’re looking for the next person to speak with.

Introduce yourself & Inquire about them.
Tell them a little about yourself and without interrogating them, ask good questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. For example, “How did you come to our group?” “What do you do for a living?”

Listen with your heart.
Try to understand where they are coming from, what makes them unique. Do your best to remember their name and other critical information they share. Remember to call them by name and follow up with them on your previous conversation. “How is your job search going? You mentioned last time that you might have a lead.”

End with an invitation.
Thank them for coming and invite them to sit with you in church or come to your Home Group. Tell them about the next group activity and offer a sincere invitation to participate.

A SMILE can go a long way in making a guest feel welcome!