I had just arrived in the Orlando Airport but had yet to receive the details of my 7 pm speaking engagement. A couple of emails to the twenty-something coordinator resulted in no reply. On the tram from the satellite terminal to baggage claim, I tried the cell number; there was no answer. Now what was I going to do?
In my frustration I quickly (relative term) typed a text as a last desperate attempt to see if there was still intelligent life on the planet. It seemed like I had no sooner pressed “send” when a reply scrolled across my screen. That’s when it dawned upon me…I was finally speaking a language that could be understood.
Everyone in youth ministry has experienced the frustration of failed communication. We work hard at connecting with our youth in meetings and Bible studies. We add music, media, drama and anything else it takes to help communicate our message. What do we do when we are not face-to-face or standing on a stage? How do we get our message through then?
You probably know all the statistics about the number of students using Facebook, the internet, cell phones, text messages, and even a stray carrier pigeon or two. But which one works best for connecting with your students or, for that matter, your youth workers? I want to suggest five things to consider for improving your communication:
- You cannot use just one means of communication. You may have a favorite way of communicating, but it is not necessarily the one that will get your message heard.
- Communication is a generational thing. I know I run the risk of profiling, but if you study the demographics of your group, you will discover that there are distinctive tools for communication with each generation.
- Ultimately communication is about the message, not the media. What works today may not work tomorrow. Keep your communication strategy fluid.
- Don’t fight change. I thought Facebook was a waste of time until I saw the ministry benefits. The same is true of Twitter, texting and blogging. Each of these is a vital communication tool I use in ministry.
- Never stop learning, growing and stretching. If you don’t know how to use a media tool, ask one of your students! Swallow your pride and get one of your Jr. High kids (ouch) to teach you.
So, what will I do with this blog info to make sure it gets to the right audience? Check out my Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin or Filed By pages…did I miss anything?
