Through a Guest’s Eyes – What does your Facility Say to Them?

Have you taken a fresh look at your facility lately? It always amazes me when I walk into a church venue and there seems to be an absence of care given to its appearance.  We are all working toward hosting new guests every Sunday (at least I hope we are).   Yet, it seems like we develop blind spots in our perspective of what our facility looks like to the first time guest.  Here’s a suggested walk-through check list for each Sunday.  Admittedly some of these seem so obvious that you wouldn’t think a list was necessary – you’d be surprised.

___     Entry to parking lot clean and well manicured

___     Walkway clear of any trash or obstructions

___     Windows clean and free of smudges (checked frequently)

___     Greeters stationed at each entry point, dressed appropriately and smiling

___     Directional signage is clear and clean

___     The entryway has a fresh smell

___     Information desk is clearly visible and staffed with friendly people

___     Children’s check-in desk is obvious

___     Children’s check-in is clearly explained

___     All posted promotional material is current

___     Hallway signs are clean and clearly marked

___     Restroom signs are clearly visible

___     Restrooms are clean, smell fresh and are checked regularly

___     Classrooms are clean, clear of clutter, and clearly marked

___     Painted walls in classrooms have been inspected and retouched if needed

___     Toys inside appropriate classrooms are clean, unbroken and stored correctly

___     Chairs in classrooms are clean and of appropriate size for the age range

___     Worship Center/Auditorium/Your Title Here is clearly marked

___     Plants, real or not, are clean and fresh in their appearance

___     Chairs, pews, benches, etc. are clean, neatly arranged and clear of clutter

___     All light fixtures are working properly

What is one of the Wow Factors at Disneyland or Disneyworld? Cleanliness.  Cleanliness is often reported by surveys as one of the things that people notice.  Shouldn’t we be at least as concerned as a theme park about how our facility is perceived by our guests?  This type of care can be accomplished by a church of any size with a little care and concern.  Our message is so important that we can’t let the “little” stuff get in the way. This is just a partial list – walk through your facility and make a list that is specific to you and then each week walk through with a guest’s eyes. What would you add to the list?  Comment to let me know.