Do you have a couple friends you'd like to do the study with? It's easy to get started and easy to make it happen. Here are a few tips to help you get off to a great start!

5 tips to help you get started:

First, make a short list of who you'd like to invite.  It really doesn't take very many people to make for a great experience. Even two people you've built a little bit of a relationship will work. If you have a list of 4 or 5 you should have no trouble finding a couple that will say yes.

Second, figure out the best day and time for you. This may seem obvious or it may seem like you should ask your friends when they'd like to do the study. Trust me, though. Choosing the day(s) and time(s) you can consistently commit and really enjoy the time is a priority.

Third, familiarize yourself with the study you will be using. By that we mean figure out what's in it for you and the people you plan to invite. The studies that are easiest to invite friends to join always have an easy-to-describe set of benefits. Your Host Kit includes an invite script with a set of obvious benefits that will appeal to the hopes and interests of your friends.

Fourth, write your name and contact info on the invite card. Wait to write in the day and time of the study until you begin to invite your friends.

Fifth, begin by asking the people you most want to include. Don't put it off! Make a point of choosing a time you can have their attention and go for it. Be sure and tell them why you specifically thought of them. If they need time to think about it, ask them if you can follow up the next day (or as soon as they think they can get back to you). If they say yes, fill in the day and time and give them one of your invite cards. Move through your list promptly following the same steps.

An important additional insight:

An important key to a great beginning for your study with a couple friends is to make it fit their level of interest. As you think about who you'd like to invite and then as you have the conversations that lead to inviting them, you'll be able to gauge their level of interest.

Some of your friends may be ready to jump right in. Others, will need a more casual beginning. Plan the way you begin to make sense to the least gung ho.

Use the Top 10 Ideas for a great first meeting as a guide, but never hesitate to adjust what you do to fit their hopes and interests.

Further Reading:

Skill Training: Top 10 Ideas for a Great First Meeting

ABCs of a Great Start for Your New Group