Kathy Guy posted a few days ago about the barriers our labels like, "small groups", create for people. People don't so much want to belong to a group, as they want to build and be part of relationships. However, before that can happen, people need time and space to get acquainted. Rapport is important before relationship can be experienced.
Kathy starts by asking:
Which of these questions would you rather ask or be asked:
- I'm getting together with a couple people over at Panera. I think you might enjoy getting to know them. You wanna come meet them?
- I'm starting a small group with a couple people. We're meeting at Panera. I think you might enjoy getting to know them. You wanna come be a part of our small group?
She adds:
Rather than looking for people to join your group, look for people who want to meet the people you know. Start socially. The conversation can still be very intentional to get to know one another. After a few times where it is apparent they seem to enjoy one another, talk about interest to do this more regularly; they can then talk as a group about how they'd like to spend the time together.
The foundation for a group is relationship. People will more likely commit to meeting regularly with people they enjoy, but they have to spend time getting to know one another. It happens over time. You can't rush it, but you can remain intentional about it.
To read the entire post, go here...
