Creating an Effective Church Welcome Team

Your welcome team is the front line of your church's first impression. They can make visitors feel like honored guests or invisible strangers—all in the first 60 seconds.

Who Should Be on Your Welcome Team?

Not everyone is cut out for greeting. Look for people who are:

• Naturally friendly: Genuine smiles, not forced ones
• Observant: Notice when someone looks lost or uncomfortable
• Reliable: Show up consistently and on time
• Knowledgeable: Know the building, programs, and can answer basic questions

Training Your Welcome Team

Don't just hand someone a name tag and say "be friendly." Provide actual training:

• How to spot first-time visitors
• What to say (and what not to say)
• How to handle common questions
• Where everything is located
• How to use your check-in system

The Greeter's Script (That Doesn't Sound Scripted)

Parking Lot: "Good morning! Welcome to [Church Name]. Is this your first time visiting?"

If yes: "Great! Can I walk you to the entrance and show you where everything is?"

At the door: "The worship center is straight ahead. Kids check-in is to the left. Coffee and restrooms are down that hall. Any questions I can answer?"

Team Structure

For a typical Sunday service, you need:

• Parking lot greeters: 2-3 people
• Door greeters: 2-4 people (one at each entrance)
• Guest services desk: 1-2 people
• Roaming hosts: 1-2 people to help anyone who looks lost

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don't ignore regulars: Greet everyone, not just visitors
• Don't be pushy: Some people want space—respect that
• Don't gossip: Welcome team members should never be seen chatting in cliques
• Don't forget names: Use name tags or the check-in system to remember

Measuring Success

Track these metrics:

• Visitor return rate (aim for 60%+)
• Connection card completion rate
• Feedback from visitors about their welcome experience
• Team member retention and satisfaction

A great welcome team doesn't happen by accident. It requires intentional recruiting, thorough training, and consistent support. But when you get it right, it transforms your church's ability to reach new people.