Editing Encouraging First Event Attendance

{{Words of Wisdom
| wisdom  = 
The goal is not to get someone to attend an event.

The goal is to make their first experience feel comfortable enough that they would consider coming back.

Reducing uncertainty and creating a personal connection makes the biggest difference.
| success = 
* New members know what to expect before attending
* First-time attendees are greeted and welcomed
* Members report feeling comfortable and included
* New attendees return for future activities (if they choose)
* Members leave with at least one meaningful connection
| best    = 
* Personal contact is more effective than general announcements  
* Small events are often better for first-time attendees  
* One positive experience builds confidence for future participation  
* Consistency matters more than scale  
* Ensure every new attendee has at least one person they recognize before they arrive.
| pitfalls =
* Expecting members to attend without personal outreach  
* Providing too little or too much information  
* Failing to meet or greet new attendees  
* Overemphasizing attendance instead of comfort  
* Assuming lack of attendance means lack of interest  
}}
== Purpose ==
Help new members feel comfortable attending their first event.

== Why This Matters ==

For many members, the hardest part is not attending an event — it’s deciding to walk into the first one.

New members often feel:

* Nervous about meeting unfamiliar people  
* Intimidated by expectations (“everyone is so smart”)  
* Unsure what events are like  
* Concerned about fitting in  

These feelings are normal and should be expected.

== What This Means in Practice ==
Not every member wants to attend events immediately. Some may prefer newsletters, online communities, or one-on-one connections first.

* Make the first event feel approachable and low-pressure  
* Replace uncertainty with clear, personal information  
* Ensure at least one familiar connection before arrival  
* Focus on comfort, not attendance numbers  

== Key Actions ==

=== Make a Personal Invitation ===
* Invite members to a specific event  
* Mention why it might be a good fit  
* Keep the tone casual and optional  

=== Reduce Uncertainty ===
Provide simple, helpful details:

* What kind of event it is (casual, structured, etc.)  
* What to expect (size, atmosphere)  
* When people typically arrive  

Avoid overwhelming with too much information.

=== Offer a “Known Contact” ===
No one wants to walk into a room of strangers.  The most effective way to support attendance:

* Let them know who else will be attending
* Mention if other newer members are expected
* Offer to meet outside and walk in together  
* Tell them how to recognize you  
* Introduce them to others  

=== Start with Low-Pressure Events ===
Good first events:

* Coffee or casual meals  
* Small gatherings  
* Game nights or informal activities  

Avoid:
* Large, complex, or highly structured events as a first experience  

== Supporting First-Time Attendees ==
{| class="wikitable"
! Before the Event
! During the Event
! After the Event
|-
|
* Send a brief reminder
* Confirm plans if you offered to meet
|
* Greet them promptly
* Make introductions
* Help them join conversations
* Check in briefly
|
* Send a follow-up message
* Thank them for attending
* Encourage future connection
|}

== Related ==
* [[Welcoming New Members]]
* [[New Member Events]]
* [[How to find the Mensans!]]
* [[Making It Personal]]
* [[Responding to Members]]
* [[Supporting Remote Members]]
* [[Membership Officer Resources]]