RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

What if there was one question you could ask that would make a huge impact in a child's life?

There is.

Recently, I came across the story Kyle Schwartz.  Kyle is a 3rd grade teacher in Denver, Colorado who cracked the code and unlocked the secret stories of her students' lives.

Schwartz asked her students  one simple question.  Here it is.
Think about what could happen if you asked the kids in your ministry this question.  It would open the door of their hearts and help you know how to better minister to them and their families.  I'm going to start asking this question.  How about you?

Words matter...especially when it comes to guests who walk in your church doors.  Your words will make them feel a certain way.

And they will remember how you made them feel...which will determine if they return or not.

These words may seem like small things, but they carry a lot of weight.  Do you find yourself saying them?  You may want to consider adjusting.

Enjoy the service.
Interpretation: You're a spectator.  Sit back and watch.  It's not about you...it's about what's happening on the stage.
Instead:  Welcome.  So glad you're part of the service today.

Are you new here?
Interpretation:  I don't know you.  Even if you've been coming for 20 years, you're not important.
Instead:  Hey,  I'm ___________ (name.)  I don't think I've had the privilege of meeting you yet.

Hey brother / sister so and so.
Interpretation:  We are family.  You are not. (and we're old school)
Instead:  Just use first names.

Thanks for visiting today.
Interpretation:  You're an outsider.
Instead:  We're honored to have you as our guest. 

You have to have your security tag when you pick up your child.
Interpretation:  We are in charge and you have to follow our rules.
Instead:  The security tag is to help ensure your child is safe.  Please bring your part of the tag when you pick him or her up.

Sorry.
Interpretation:  We are impersonal.  
Instead:  I apologize.

I don't know.
Interpretation:  I don't care and I'm too lazy to find out the answer.
Instead:  That's a great question.  Let me find out the answer for you.

You did not...
Interpretation:  It's all your fault and we want you to know you made a mistake.
Instead:  Let me help you...

Go down that hallway.  Take a left.  Go up the stairs.  Take a right at the water fountain...
Interpretation:  You're not important enough for me to leave this spot.  Good luck.  You're on your own.
Instead:  I'd be honored to walk with you there.

Let me TRY to help you.
Interpretation:  I may or may not be able to accommodate you.
Instead:  I can help you.

What are some other things that we shouldn't say on Sunday mornings (or any other time)?  Share them with us in the comment section below.

There is nothing more frustrating than a business or company that is rude or unprofessional on the phone.  We've all experienced it.  Left a bad taste in your mouth, didn't it.  It may have even caused you to take your business elsewhere.

Your children's ministry's phone etiquette is so important.  It makes a lasting impression on people.  Here's 25 tips you can use to make sure your phone etiquette leaves people smiling.

1. Answer the phone after the second ring.
2. Put a smile on your face and let it shine through.
3. Speak clearly, slowly, and with confidence.
4. Always use a pleasant and friendly tone.
5. Identify your ministry, yourself, and ask "How may I help you?"
6. Ask for the person's name and use it during the conversation.
7. Before you place someone on hold, ask their permission.
8. Remember it's better to ask permission to call someone back rather than keeping them on hold for a long period of time. 
9. Never interrupt the person when they are talking.
10. Never argue with someone over the phone.
11. Do not have food in your mouth or be chewing gum when you answer.
12. Don't give them the feeling you are rushed or they are unimportant.
13. Return voice mails quickly.  Within 24 hours at the very latest.
14. Don't say, "I don't know."  Say, "That's a great question...I'll be happy to find out for you."
15. If someone asks for prayer, take time to pray with them over the phone.
16. Keep the voice mail updated with brief information about current events that people may be calling with questions about. 
17. Listen carefully.  Don't be checking email at the same time.
18. If there is a problem, project a tone that is concerned and empathetic.
19. If they ask about a program that you don't offer, don't just say "we don't offer that...sorry."  Instead, say "we don't currently offer that program, but here's a couple of other great things we do offer."
20. Instead of saying "you'll need to" say "here's how we can help you."
21. When transferring a call, instead of saying "let me transfer you," say "let me connect you."
22. When you write down information like a phone number, repeat it back to them to make sure you wrote it down correctly.
23. Thank them for calling and invite them to call back anytime they have questions or you can be of help.
24.  Say "good-by" not "bye-bye."
25. Let these two words guide your conversations...courtesy and kindness.

What are some other phone tips that can help children's ministries make a good impression?  Share with us in the comment section below.