How to Recruit Volunteers Without Begging: Build a First Impressions Team That Lasts

Finding the Right Volunteers for Guest Ministry

Let’s be real, every church leader has lived through the awkward “please just fill the slot” volunteer ask.

You’ve probably said it or heard it yourself:

“We’re short on greeters, can you just stand at the door this week?”
“We need warm bodies. Anyone free Sunday?”

The problem?
That style of recruiting fills a spot but never builds a team.

If you want a First Impressions ministry that truly reflects the heart of your church, you’ve got to recruit with purpose, not pressure.

Related: Who Should Be on Your Guest Follow-Up Team

Look for People, Not Just Positions

Before you blast another generic “We need volunteers!” announcement, pause and ask:

“Who already embodies warmth, kindness, and a desire to serve?”

Start with those people.

Some of the best volunteers I’ve ever seen were already doing the work unofficially. They were the ones:

• Checking in on people
  
  
• Helping a new family find their way
  
  
• Making room in a row for a guest

They were living out hospitality before anyone gave them a badge.

All they needed was an invitation.

Qualities That Actually Matter

Contrary to popular belief, First Impressions volunteers don’t have to be super outgoing.

What you really want are people who:

• Naturally smile
  
  
• Make others feel at ease
  
  
• Notice needs without being prompted
  
  
• Show empathy even in small moments
  
  
• Care enough to show up early

Pro tip: The best volunteers don’t usually raise their hands. They’re quietly serving in the background. Go find them.

Build a Team That Reflects Your Church

Guests feel more comfortable when they see people who look like them and understand their season of life.

A healthy First Impressions team includes:

• Teens and seniors
  
  
• Introverts and extroverts
  
  
• Different cultural and ethnic backgrounds
  
  
• Parents, single adults, college students, retirees

Diversity isn’t a nice-to-have.
It’s one of the most powerful ways to help guests feel like they belong.

Invite People, Don’t Pressure Them

This is where most churches struggle.
People don’t want to fill a gap.
But they do want to make a difference.

Instead of saying:

“We really need more volunteers…”

Try this:

“I’ve noticed how well you connect with people. Have you ever considered serving on our First Impressions team? I think you’d be incredible.”

That simple shift communicates three things:

• I see something in you.
  
  
• This role matters.
  
  
• You can make an impact here.

People respond to purpose, not guilt.

Be Clear About the Why

When someone is interested, clarity is your friend. Let them know:

• What the role includes
  
  
• How often they’ll serve
  
  
• How you’ll train and support them
  
  
• And most importantly… why this ministry matters

People don’t commit to a schedule.

They commit to a mission.

Want a Better Volunteer System at Your Church?

If you’re tired of scrambling for volunteers…
If you want a team that’s consistent, confident, and excited to serve…
If you want a system that actually grows people and your ministry…

First Impressions Academy was built for you.

It’s the step-by-step framework churches use to build healthy, sustainable volunteer systems, without relying on pressure, guilt, or last-minute Sunday morning sign-ups.

‍