6 Communication Mistakes that Limit Ministry Effectiveness
"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." George Bernard Shaw
The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place— George Bernard Shaw Share on X
I have a love/hate relationship with Shaw's line. I love the simple truth in it. And...I hate the simple truth in it.
One of the greatest inhibitors of effective ministry is poor (or less than great) communication.
Here are six very common mistakes:
1. We assume that everyone already knows.
As infrequent attendance becomes more and more common, our assumption needs to be that everyone doesn't already know. This is why I've suggested that we need to make the host ask several weeks in a row.
2. We try to explain detailed information in the wrong settings.
Some things need a more thorough explanation. The time to explain more thoroughly is not in the announcements. Detail can be provided in a well written FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document. Here's an example of a Host FAQ.
3. We try to automate too much communication.
Some things need a personal touch. I hand out a lot of business cards and say, "Call me. Let's talk about it." No matter the size of your ministry, personalizing some communication is just good practice. I've pointed out this little detail before. See also, The Teeny Tiny Detail at the Bottom of This Saddleback Web Page.
4. We manufacture enthusiasm and it doesn't fool anyone.
This is central issue in communication. When the communicator isn't truly enthused about the program or event, everyone can sense it. If the communicator isn't enthused, either you have the wrong communicator or the wrong program.
We manufacture enthusiasm and it doesn't fool anyone. This is central issue in communication. When the communicator isn't truly enthused about the program or event, everyone can sense it. If the communicator isn't enthused, either you… Share on X
5. We communicate only the what (or the how) but not the why.
This is a very important understanding. When all we do is explain what we're doing or how we're doing it, we miss the most important aspect, the why behind it. Why is the most effective persuader/influencer.
When all we do is explain what we're doing or how we're doing it, we miss the most important aspect, the why behind it. Why is the most effective persuader/influencer. Share on X
See also, Wrestling with Why.
6. We limit communication to an information/data exchange.
Like it or not, wired for it or not, there are many in your crowd who primarily respond to passion or emotion. If all we do is communicate the facts, we miss this group. Conversely, there are some that are wired to respond to the facts. If all we do is make emotional appeals, we miss this group. Balance is essential.
Like it or not, wired for it or not, there are many in your crowd who primarily respond to passion or emotion. If all we do is communicate the facts, we miss this group. Conversely, there are some that are wired to respond to the… Share on X
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This is great info. From my experience I have seen these mistakes far too often.
great reminder…and very timely as fall programs begin to be launched. Thx.
Thanks Rob!
Thanks Dane!
Great opening quote! I think some churches would grow if they were simply better at communication. No major changes, just over-communicate.
That is the truth! Thanks Andrew!
Thanks for this list. #5 is great, I believe it’s where we create value.
You’re right Joanne! Without the why…it’s just noise!
mark
Wow! Thanks for these Mark. I can identify with 4 mistakes i make already. Really an eye opener.
Mark – This is a great list of communication mistakes that I have unfortunately experienced and made myself at times. Another mistake to consider adding to your list is the lack of listening. Communication is 2-way. Sometimes we get so focused on the next thing we are going to say (or write), we aren’t present for the people we are communicating with. Why do we expect them to listen and act on what we say if we aren’t willing to do the same?
You’re right Roger! If we’re not listening we will struggle to communicate about the right things in the right way.
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