The First 10 Seconds...Making a Great First Impression

Disney is excellent at making first impressions...especially in the first 10 seconds.

As you approach the front gates of the Magic Kingdom you are immersed in thousands of colorful flowers.

The smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies floats your way. 

In the background, Disney songs are playing.

Here's something that Disney understands that we need to take a cue from.

Your interaction with guests in their first 10 seconds forms the perception they will carry with them into your church.

The first 10 seconds in your church may seem like a small thing but that tiny amount of time makes a lasting impression.

Keep this in mind as well.  The first impression truly is a lasting impression...especially the first 10 seconds that guests come in contact with your ministry.

Think through these questions...

What do you want guests to see in the first 10 seconds?

What do you want guests to be immersed in the first 10 seconds?

What do you want guests to experience in the first 10 seconds?

What do you want guests to hear in the first 10 seconds?  

Your answers to these questions will determine if guests return or not.

Here are some examples...

Sight. Make sure your greeters are happy people who naturally smile.  Have bright, fun colors in your decor.

Sounds. Have happy, fun music playing in the hallways. Music is a powerful force. I recently added music in our nursery and preschool hallway for this very reason.

Smell. Guests' sense of smell should be met with a clean, pleasant smell.  

Make a great impression in the first 10 seconds and you will see guests return for a second visit.

You can get more ideas for making a great first impression in my book "Be Our Church Guest." 

It is available at this link.