Encouraging First Event Attendance

Words of 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.

What Success Looks Like

• 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 Practices

• 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.

Common 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

Reminder Before the Event

• Send a brief reminder a day or two before
• Confirm plans if you offered to meet

This reduces last-minute hesitation.

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

During the Event

Small actions make a big difference.

• Greet them promptly
• Introduce them to a few friendly members
• Help them join conversations
• Check in briefly during the event

After the Event

• Follow up with a short message
• Thank them for coming
• Encourage future connection (without pressure)

Related

• Welcoming New Members
• New Member Events
• Making It Personal
• Responding to Members
• Supporting Remote Members
• Membership Officer - Templates and Samples