Are you involved in church communication and struggling to capture the attention of your audience? You’re not alone. With the rise of social media, streaming services, and other forms of entertainment, competition for attention has never been more intense. But don’t worry – there are ways to cut through the noise and make a lasting impact. One such way is through creative church communication strategies and the right audiovisual (AV) technology. In this article, we’ll explore how effective communication is key to any event and how you can use creative church communication to connect with your audience and leave a lasting impression.
Studies have shown that 65 percent of the population are visual learners, meaning we retain information better when messages and ideas are associated with appealing and relevant imagery. For example, consider the power of children’s books. The most captivating stories feature vivid imagery that reinforces the message. Children learn by seeing and hearing. Similarly, as adults, we often need visuals to captivate our attention and pique our interest. With our attention piqued, we become more intrigued and receptive to learning.
Capturing your church audience’s attention is critical, but equally important is retaining their attention beyond the initial engagement. Planning thoughtfully and considering the event’s purpose, audience, length, and desired outcome is essential.
A college professor once told me that having a good pen was as important as being well-dressed for an interview. I didn’t understand his advice then, but today as an older and wiser individual, I can confidently say I get it. Things that look good feel good. A pen is a pen, yes, but it is no different than a belt, a purse, or the perfect pair of shoes that finishes off your look just right so you can confidently tackle the day. This level of attention to detail can help to enhance the overall experience, set the right tone and ensure your audience is fully engaged and attentive throughout the event.
I have worked in the live event industry for over 20 years, working with brands, teams, and organizations to craft creative content and experiences that inform, entertain, and educate audiences. While many trends come and go, these five AV church communication strategies will remain core:
Table of Contents
AVL Church Communication Strategy #1 – Create Clean and Concise Graphics
Clean and concise graphics are like chapters in a book; they help guide your audience through the story you are telling. Compelling graphics simplify complex ideas, highlight key points, and make information more accessible. They also establish a sense of continuity and structure throughout your presentation, making it easier for your audience to follow along and stay engaged. Many tools on the market today can be used, but if you aren’t already using Canva, I recommend you check it out. Canva is an incredibly user-friendly platform that makes graphic design accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level. In addition, it offers an expansive library of templates and design elements to create professional-looking designs quickly and easily.
AVL Church Communication Strategy #2 – Tell Stories with Video
Using video to connect with your audiences on a more personal level harnesses one of the most valuable ways to communicate through this visual medium. Videos don’t have to be expensive or highly produced to be effective; in fact, many of the most successful videos are more organic and personal. People want to see relatable and authentic content to make them feel more connected. Also, keep them short and to the point; think 30 seconds or less. TikTok, along with several other social media platforms, has radically changed the way we consume content. Videos that are short-form with a visually-driven approach have become the norm.
AVL Church Communication Strategy #3 – Use Interactive Technology
Interactive technology is a popular strategy for engaging audiences to create a unique opportunity for participants to actively engage and participate in the event rather than just being passive observers. By incorporating synchronized experiences with cell phone-based light shows, trivia, or other fan-curated content, you provide your audience with something to do and actively engage with. This helps to create a sense of participation and makes the audience feel like they are truly a part of the event or experience. In addition, they can also be used to create a sense of community and shared experience, which is a great way to bring people together in a meaningful way.
AVL Church Communication Strategy #4 – Engage the Audience’s Senses
One of the most important things to remember is that people are not machines. They respond to content that engages their senses and triggers emotions or feelings based on lights, sounds, and motion. Use your audio and visual resources to help create an immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression, for example, only use audio that matches the tone and style of the event, add lighting effects to add energy to the room, or emphasize key parts of the presentation, think about the colors you are using and the overall aesthetics of the graphics or decoration in the room. Simple ideas like this combined or reinforced with quality audio and visual technologies, you can create an experience that truly resonates with your audience.
AVL Church Communication Strategy #5 – Provide a Consistent Experience
Provide a consistent experience for all attendees, both those in person and those online, from the audio, visual, and lighting effects to any interactive technology that is used. This will ensure that everyone is not only getting the same content but will also help create a consistent and inclusive experience for all attendees and reinforce the overall sense of community.
When it comes to creating an impactful event, the details matter. From the graphics you use to the stories you tell, to the interactive technology you incorporate, each element engages your audience and leaves a lasting impression.
Prioritize authentic and relatable content that engages the senses and take your communication strategy seriously without taking yourself too seriously. Have some fun and get creative because, with the right plan and technology, you can create a memorable experience that will leave your audience wanting more.
Join us at WAVE Fall this September 12-14, 2023 in Louisville, KY. Learn with your peers, meet leading manufacturers, and connect with others with the same challenges you are facing.
Why Attend WAVE? (What makes us different)
The WAVE conference focuses on audiovisual and lighting first and is a traditional conference and expo with the best church AVL exhibitors and vendors in the industry. At WAVE, you and your tech team will have the time to talk with exhibitors because our expo floor is less crowded and better organized than other AVL conferences. WAVE offers the opportunity to see what others are doing and even boasts and church tour local to the conference. Experience roundtable discussions during meals and after sessions. Visit the biggest manufacturers in your area. Maximize your team’s time for education, training on equipment, and industry connection and collaboration. Lastly, WAVE offers incredible value for the education, exhibit access, networking, worship, and amenities for the price of the ticket. Lastly, we at WAVE want to see your church grow, help others find God, and feel personal satisfaction with their jobs by being educated and connecting within the AVL church tech industry. Register for WAVE today!
Trisha Schuver
Trisha Schuver is a creative problem-solver with a passion for using creativity and strategy to enhance experiences, tell compelling stories, and present ideas in innovative ways. With years of experience working with major league teams, national brands, and more, she delivers solutions that inform, entertain, and educate audiences. She currently works with CUE, a live event and mobile engagement company. They have done global activations with sports teams, churches, concerts, festivals, theme parks, and more, specializing in creating engaging and memorable experiences. Contact trisha@cueaudio.com for more information.