The Power of Perception
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October 29, 2008 The power of perception can never be underestimated. Once an individual forms a perception about your church, it is very hard to undo. Richard Reising in his book Church Marketing 101 states that good "marketing is the management of perception." Why? Because too often perception becomes reality to those outside the church. Whether their perception is right or wrong, how an individual perceives your church can determine whether or not you will have a chance to reach them with the Gospel. Let me show you an example. Creating a good perception of your church is half the battle. Here is an example: Look at these two churches. What do you see? Which church do you think an unchurched individual will be more likely to go inside?   Church 1 Church 2 I don't know about you, but church 1 is a little frightening. Church 2 however, wow! Here is what the unchurched individual doesn't know; What's inside?
Inside Church 1 Inside Church 2 Church 1 may have a whole lot more to offer, but the unchurched can't get beyond initial perceptions, no matter how good things are on the inside. I am not simply talking about the look of a building. Realize that everything you do creates a perception of who you are. The look of your mailers, the production of your services, the way people are greeted at the door, the atmosphere of the worship area, and etc... Everything is creating perceptions. I remember my parents teaching me the power of first impressions. I was sixteen and received my first speeding ticket. They convinced me to dress in my Sunday best, a suit and tie at that time, as I went before the judge. Every other kid in that courtroom was dressed in blue jeans and t-shirts. The judge was a real piece of work. I was convinced he hated teenagers. Every one of the teens who stood before that judge was being raked over the coals. Unfortunately, my turn came. I swallowed hard, and stood up to face my judgment. I will never forget what happened next. The judge looked at me and said, "Son, you look like a fine young man, I'm going to forgive your speeding ticket this time, but you still have to pay the court cost. Have a nice day." You could have hear a pin drop in the courtroom. I realized then, that Mom and Dad weren't as dumb as I thought. Man, I wish that still worked today, but that is another story. Some people's perceptions you can't control. What you can't control you leave up to God. What you can control you work hard to get right. Work hard as you start your new church. Remove as many obstacles, stumbling blocks, and excuses as you can from the unchurched or dechurched. Create an atmosphere both inside and out that is welcoming, warm, and authentic. Above all do everything with as much excellence as you can afford. Do your best to generate a positive perception. | |
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Posted 10/29/2008 in Church Planting |
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