It’s no longer a question of “if” your church will have a presence on social media but “when” and “how.” Giving your church a place on Facebook/Twitter is a must when it comes to reaching today’s culture. Jesus went to the places where people were congregating. Social media offers the church an incredible place to meet people where they are. People are incredibly comfortable with Facebook so much so that they post precise details and photos so it is only natural for churches to have a presence where people are open.
Why Social Media?
-Reach: Facebook has robust word-of-mouth potential. For example, if one person has 1,000 friends and recommends your church, that was free advertising to 1,000 people that may have never heard or seen your church without it. One-sided advertising costs money and there is no customer interaction while social media overs users the chance to engage with the church and ask questions directly over a trusted medium.
-Spread: Ability to share events and promotions. Whether your church is holding a food drive or a youth promotion, Facebook gets the information across to multiple people for them to spread the word and build advertising momentum.
-Cost: Facebook does not charge to create a page or maintain it.
-Positions: Are you looking for employees? Simply post it on your Facebook page
Objectives when creating a social media plan for your church:
Point people to Jesus by inviting them to church. Keep people in the loop by giving information and updates on missionaries, ministry opportunities, current building program(s), church history, and fun facts about staff members. Present pictures into searchable albums for easy viewing Demonstrate church values and mission statement Interact with people and answer questions Access popularity and community potential Find potential members Reach previously unreached markets Offer a sneak peek into your church.