As a member of a church in Swindon that continues to grow, I met with one of the leaders a couple of weeks ago and had a conversation around Church Marketing.
The biggest problem that I think churches come up against (from reading round the internet) is the argument from members of the congregation that Marketing is not in the bible.
Sure I agree that Jesus never said that all churches should have a website, properly designed flyers and leaflets, social media accounts and so on, but he did say 'go into all the world...' - it is the gospel we need to market more effectively.
To over come the point that many might raise about church marketing, the aim for the church should be to share the gospel etc... in my opinion. The gospel never changes, but our marketing strategies must if the Church is to make a lasting impact in our world. It's about becoming more relevant without being pandering to tolerance.
Here are some simple bullet points to think on... to get you going as a member, leader or overseer for a local church. There are no surprises here either...
1. Goals and aims
Take a strategic approach to developing a marketing/communication vision. Think about what do we want to achieve and Why?
2. Alignment
How do these marketing/comms aims align to the values of the Church, vision of the Church and the Bible?
3. Audience
Identify key target audiences such as the Church congregation, specific groups within the Church and specific groups / individuals outside of the church.
4. Current marketing activity
Ask yourself: What do we do in terms of current marketing/comms activity (everything...)? What is the marketing/comms budget for this year? Who does it? Is it measured and working?
5. A one year plan
Messages and marketing requirements for the next 12 months. Including: Events / High Sundays, Campaigns / specific weeks planned (prayer and fasting, outreach etc), Internal comms, Ministries and events they will hold (Sunday School, Kids Church, Homeless Projects etc) - Put these all on a calendar or wall planner in your admin office to show the marketing/comms timeline for the next 12 months.
6. Measuring tactics
Decide how to measure the effectiveness of the marketing campaigns/activities?
7. People
Who will be involved in the Oversight and Ownership, Strategic planning and guidance, Delivery, Admin / Buying
