Secrets of a Secret Shopper: Reaching and Keeping Church Guests

by Greg Atkinson, Ray Johnston (Foreword)

Secrets of a Secret Shopper is a book on the ministry of hospitality, first impressions, and guest services for the local church written by Greg Atkinson for pastors and church leaders. The book covers ten areas of focus including online presence, parking, signage, children’s ministry, security, and others.

Genres: Church

150 pages, Paperback

Published December 21, 2016

About the author

Greg Atkinson is the Founder of Worship Impressions, the First Impressions Conference, The Entrepreneurial Church Conference, and the Co-Founder of the Social Media Church Conference. Greg is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, speaker, leadership coach, and consultant. Greg has worked with churches of all stages and sizes, including some of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the country, as well as with businesses, non-profits, and organizations such as Josh McDowell Ministries. Greg started and ran his own social media marketing company. Greg has been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and on CBS, FOX, and NBC. Greg has been in leadership for three decades. He resides in Charlotte, NC.

Reviews

[Andrew Ivester · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, Atkinson gives feedback on reaching and keeping church guests. From simple word changes to signage and security Atkinson gives a number of helpful practices. One of the benefits of this book is that he doesn’t presume upon what others will think, but rather what he thinks when he walks in a church for the first time paired with what he has observed in others. Although not every suggestion is practical for every size church, every leader needs to read this book to get their awareness level up for guests that show up every Sunday.

[Alyssa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mediocre book with a few good ideas for how to look at your church with fresh, guest-focused eyes. Definitely not practical or helpful for smaller churches, especially ones that don’t own their space. There are probably a lot better books out there. (One example is when he said if your pastor does not have a personal bodyguard, you are doing things WRONG.) This screams mega-church. There were many other things I didn’t love, but it being a short read, I just glossed over the unhelpful things and took away the few helpful tidbits.

[Christopher Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful guide with some reservations

I enjoyed a lot of what this book has to say, but Greg's approach can feel a bit too buisness like for my taste. He makes it clear that he does NOT want to come across as advocating for a cold buisness like model of church, but there were a few moments that felt that way. Still, so much of the book is really helpful practical advice that I found useful.

[Bryan Reeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came across this book through some facebook groups that the author Greg Atkinson is apart of. It was a helpful book even though I was hoping for a little bit more. An easy read that other church leaders could easily get through. I am excited to be able to pass this book along to two of my leaders. Hopefully it will move us in the right direction.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, easy read on things to think through in churches, so we're ready when first-time guests come through the door. Great for Welcome/Connect teams especially, but really for anyone in church leadership.

[Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful book for those who are being intentional with 'guest services' at their church. It definitely tilts toward larger churches with a focus on growth. However, there are principles smaller churches can glean from his writing.

[Dave Corlew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very practical. Concise. This book is a great resource for church staffs to vigorously discuss.

[Christopher Sweet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insight

Great book to share with your guest services. It will assist with establishing the “why” of their ministry. I highly recommend this book and those referenced within.

[Terri Milstead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy read. Finished with lots of notes and takeaways, including several ideas for our specific church setting.

[Jacob Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good practical thoughts for church leadership.

[Gregory S Shields · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical Evaluation Tool for every church

Thankful for this resource that has been written for a church of any size to pick up and use to evaluate key essential areas of their church's ministry. I Believe looking at these key areas very close will allow your church to WIN every week as your seek to make Jesus famous in your community.

[Mike Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This was concise and to the point. Lots of great practical information. I plan on purchasing several copies for our hospitality team at church.

[Michael James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read for a much needed change

I love the simple and clear picture that is painted for every guest of your church as we walk through this book! As you open this book, keep your eyes open so that God may direct you and speak to you.