How to Use Social Media to Reduce Guests Uncertainty
Social media can feel overwhelming for churches. With endless posts, reels, and stories competing for attention, it’s hard to know what works best. But what if there was one post your church could make each week that consistently connects with your audience and encourages people to attend your worship service? That’s exactly what I’ll unpack in this blog post.
Hi, I’m Larry Witzel from Ministry Insights at Surreyview, and today we’re talking about the power of a single, strategic post that every church should be making weekly. Ready to boost your church’s engagement? Let’s dive in!
Why Social Media Is Key for Churches
In today’s digital-first world, people spend nearly half their waking hours online, with much of that time on social media. When Jesus called us to “go into all the world,” He didn’t exclude the digital space. Social media is one of the largest mission fields available, with three-quarters of internet users connecting there regularly.
To truly engage, your church must go where the people are—online. And research shows there’s one type of post that stands out for driving real-world engagement.
The Magic of Behind-the-Scenes Posts
The most effective weekly post your church can make? A behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening before your worship service.
This might be:
- The band practicing.
- The tech team setting up.
- Greeters at the door.
- Coffee stations being prepped.
- Kids’ ministry volunteers arranging classrooms.
These simple, real-time posts do more than inform—they connect. They provide a window into your church’s culture, showing that your church is active, welcoming, and a place where people belong. And most importantly, they serve as a gentle reminder: We’re here, and there’s still time to join us.
Why It Works
- Engagement Through Authenticity: People love authenticity. A snapshot of “life in progress” resonates far more than polished ads.
- Reducing Uncertainty: Behind-the-scenes content helps visitors feel more confident about attending by giving them a glimpse of what to expect.
- Timeliness: Posting early in the morning of your service allows people to see it, adjust their plans, and decide to attend.
A Real-Life Example
One morning, I posted a playful video of our sound technician testing mics. The caption? “Kevin getting the tech set up for worship this morning.” The result? Triple the usual engagement, and several people came to church that day specifically because of the post.
The following week, I shared a picture of two volunteers setting up chairs with the caption, “There’s something in the water at Oasis.” That post got 10 times the usual engagement. Why? It was relatable, fun, and authentic.
How to Create Your Weekly Post
Here’s your recipe for success.
- Take Candid Photos or Videos: Capture moments that reflect your church’s culture.
- Keep It Authentic: Let the scene speak for itself—no hard sales pitch.
- Post Early: Aim to post at least a few hours before your service starts.
Avoid calls to action like “Join us!” or “Visit today!” These posts are about showing, not telling. Trust your audience to respond naturally.
The Impact of Being Present Online
In a world filled with doom-scrolling, your church’s post can be a breath of fresh air. It’s not just content—it’s an invitation to experience community. A timely post can remind someone on the fence about attending that there’s a place waiting for them.
So, pastors and church leaders, take heart. Your ministry has a larger impact than you realize. With small, consistent efforts like this weekly post, you can create a welcoming environment online and in-person.
Start Today!
Ready to see the difference a single post can make? Start capturing those behind-the-scenes moments and share them each week. You’ll not only boost engagement but also create meaningful connections that bring people through your church doors.
For more tips on using social media effectively, check out last week’s post on reducing guests’ uncertainty and making them feel confident about attending.
Let’s show the world the vibrant, welcoming community your church offers—one post at a time.
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