4 Unique Problems of a Virtual Meeting - Solved
Next week, a client and I are inviting about 200 pastors from a client's denomination to join a virtual meeting. This meeting will be an invitation to them to be part of planting a church in Asia.
This is a new idea to try to connect with pastors in the denomination, where there is potential for hundreds of church partnerships. We were just having trouble cracking the code. Well, we came up with the idea of a large virtual meeting and we've yet to see how it goes.
So, what are the key elements to making this a success?
1- GETTING THEM TO COME TO THE MEETING!
We're going to send what is called a "drip campaign," using an app that connects to Gmail called If No Reply. We can set up a series of automated emails that ask the recipient to respond and confirm they will come to our virtual event. If they don't respond, they get another email. If they do respond, If No Reply automatically takes them off of the drip campaign.
In the drip campaign, we'll cast vision, share quotes from peers encouraging them to come, and let them know what they can expect from this event.
2- INSPIRE THEM TO TAKE ACTION.
In this instance, the client is planting a church in a major city in Asia. It's something this entire denomination has never done before. And it's an amazing opportunity for a church to be part of a ministry where God is clearly working.
During the meeting, we'll plainly articulate the hardship of a city without the gospel. We'll share impact stories. We'll share a clear vision and timeline. And we'll make a clear ask, "We're looking for 30 churches to commit to giving $1K to $3K in the next 6 months."
3- MAKE IT EASY TO GIVE.
We're going to use a text-to-give platform, called Tithe.ly. It's $19 per month plus your normal 3% processing fee. This allows us to make a clear ask for financial partnership, and to call them to participate, even when we are on the video call.
4- OF COURSE, THERE'S FOLLOW UP.
That's only the beginning! We'll have a follow-up strategy for those who attend but don't give. We'll also have a strategy of next steps for those who attend and do give.
The first gift is just the beginning of the relationship.
Russell Cooper, Co-Founder