Beth Kolar | Yorkville Small Groups
Are you what you said you wanted to be when you grew up? Chances are you aren't. Does that mean that it was a bad career choice? Does that mean you're a liar, or inconsistent, or that you don't know yourself? I don't think so.
It is far more likely that you grew up, tried some things and figured out what you liked and were good at what you didn't like and weren't good at. You might still be working towards what you always wanted to be, but aren't there just yet.
The same basic principle applies to finding a small group. Potential members might have great intentions to attend your group, but they aren't there just yet. It doesn't mean they are liars or they really never wanted to join your group.
It means that they aren't there...just yet!
So how do you get them there? Follow-up. You've heard "Life is a journey, not a destination." What about 'journeying' with your potential small group members? The beginning of the journey is 'the ask'..."Do you want to come to my small group?"
The rest of the journey is follow-up.
Did they come? No? Call them and see how they are, what kept them away...will they be able to come next week? Yes? Call them and see how they are, how they liked group and if they are able to come next week. And if they don't come next week? Call them and see how they are, what kept them away...will they be able to come next week? (and no, this isn't a typo)
You may at some point ask if another night or location is more comfortable for them and direct them to another group. But remember, if you do, to...call the small group leader with the name and number of the prospective member. And then...call them and see how they are, how they are liked the group and if they will be going the next week.
People need to try things out before they know what they want and people don't often end up where they start. Follow-up is a way to care about and connect the unconnected.