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Top 10 Ways to Find New Group Members

Who makes the best new members for your group?  That’s easy.  Unconnected people with whom you are actively building a relationship.  Here are some ideas that will help you find new members:

  1. Look for people who are already doing the same things you are.  If your kids are in High School, make it a point to get to know other parents.  If your kids are younger…make it a point to meet other parents as you check them in to Sunday School.  Whether you’re in a bunko group, on a softball team, do scrapbooking, or regularly watch your kids’ little league games…be on the lookout for people who are already doing the same things that you are.
  2. If you sit in the same area at the same service every week, you’ll often begin to notice some of the same people.  Get in the habit of getting to know one or two new people every week.  In the “say hello to a few people around you” part of the service…make it a point to remember their names.  Write their name(s) down as soon as you sit down.  As the service ends tell them you’ll see them next week.
  3. Take a few minutes in your next meeting to talk about who your members know that would be a good fit in your group.  It’s a good idea to talk through the Circles of Life handout (click here to download a copy). Sometimes all you need is something to jog your memory.
  4. Plan a social get-together (potluck, cookout, theme dinner, chili cookoff, etc.) and invite unconnected friends over.   This is a great idea to schedule on a regular basis between studies.  The perfect way to get to know a few new people.
  5. Volunteer to serve at your membership class.   Think about it.  Everyone at the class is taking a next step…the perfect time to join a small group.
  6. Volunteer to serve as an usher or greeter.  You’ll see a lot of the same people.  Easy to be friendly and invite them to your group.
  7. Volunteer to serve at the small group kiosk in your lobby.  You’ll have first crack at the people looking for a group!  How cool is that!
  8. Volunteer to serve with…(see a pattern developing? almost any volunteer opportunity will put you in contact with unconnected people).
  9. Make sure your group is absolutely, positively, up-to-date in your Small Group Finder.
  10. What ideas do you have?  Take a moment and add your tips in the comment section below!