When Lifeway Retail Stores were still open across the country, I had the opportunity to help plan and design a brand new “flagship” store in the Nashville area. I had never worked a retail job in my life, so I had a lot to learn about inventory, point of sale, and something called the FIZ!! What is a FIZ you might ask? It’s a term that stands for “First Impression Zone” and is used to describe the experience a customer has when they first enter the store. It’s a critical space since the goal is for the customer to have a visually pleasing experience and understand where to go next-to the right? To the left? Straight ahead? A positive FIZ will guide a shopper effortlessly through the store, inviting them to linger a little longer, engage with the products and salespeople, and leave wanting to return.
I think our kids ministry spaces could benefit from using the FIZ strategy! What are the first things people notice when they walk into the kids area at your church? You don’t have to have new or fancy features to create an inviting space. It’s more about cleanliness and clarity. Think through the eyes of a first-time visitor who has never been to your church.
Often, it’s the kids ministry hallways and spaces that are the first impression zones for the whole church! First time guests will be looking for where to take their babies, preschoolers, and children before they go to a worship service or adult group class. Think about what their experience is like from the moment they park their car, to walking in the building, and going through the process of registering their child. First impressions matter because if done right, they communicate hospitality and offer a warm welcome. But if we are not mindful, a first impression zone can communicate lack of care and lead to confusion and an overall bad experience. So, be sure and check your FIZ and be ready to welcome your guests back again and again.
Simple Gratitude Prayers for Kids: Easy Prompts and Activities
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