People Matter

Names

Remember their name and share your name. This adds a feeling of value to them. Names are important. When a greeter introduces a guest to a few key people, he will no longer view your church as a cold institution. Instead, the guest is more likely to view it as a warm, loving family.

Think about being genuinely interested in them. If members use guests’ names, their opinion of the congregation goes up. If a greeter calls the guest by name later, after worship or during a Bible class, their opinion of the congregation goes sky high. Most of us think we can’t remember names. Most think it is a talent that some have but they don’t. However, remembering names is a skill that can be developed just like any other. There are a couple of things that you as Greeter can do to improve your memory of names.

Your name is valuable too. An important aspect of being a Greeter is to be identifiable as one. Some may have a name badge to identify us as Greeters. This not only will identify us, but it will make it evident to our Guests that we’re organized and that we value Guests who are sent our way. Assimilation is simply well-planned Biblical hospitality through service. The head of the church is the greatest server of all time. Doesn’t it follow that we should be the ultimate example of such service to our Guests? With the right attitude and culture in place, we can serve in a way that will truly touch lives for God’s kingdom.

Say the person’s name. Self-improvement courses say to repeat the name three times to learn it. That is good advice, but it seems artificial to say, “Good to meet you, Patrick Davis. What brings you our way this morning, Patrick Davis? Well, Patrick Davis we certainly hope you enjoy your time with us.” Try this approach. In order to remember a name, be sure you hear it. When someone introduces themselves to you if there is any doubt say, “I’m sorry. Please repeat your name. Patrick Davis? Well it is good to meet you.” As you guide them to the next connection point, introduce him to others by name. “Larry, I want you to meet Patrick Davis. He’s one of our guests this morning. Patrick works in the office building near your shoe store.” “It’s been good to meet you Patrick. I think you’d really like our young adult class. Paul (or what the person’s name is) can help you find the classroom and introduce you to some of the people in the class.”

After you meet a guest and they leave to go to Bible class or into the assembly, one of the best things you can do to help you remember their name is to write it down. Our welcome books help in this area. Section hosts should do their best in this area. By simply writing it down, you have reinforced the memory process. The difficulty is remembering the name, not the face. Even if you have a dozen names written down, before the morning is over, you will likely remember which face goes with each name. Writing it down also helps you to keep a mental note of who is visiting. Next time you are greeting, take your list of names, review it and you are more likely to recall the name of a person who comes again. You may not always remember the name when you meet the person again, but think how powerful it will be when you do. One of the best ways to use the information immediately is to review the list quickly before the end of the worship service. As soon as the service is over, seek out guests and express your appreciation for their visit and use their name. Carry an index card or a small pad of paper and a pen. Do this exercise. It will be worth it. 

Introduce Yourself with Your Full Name So People Will Remember It

https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-simple-change-that-will-make-you-a-more-powerful-networker