How to connect to other youth leaders in person

Here’s the scenario:  Let’s pretend you just accepted a new youth ministry position and moved to a community where you know no one. How do you begin to meet other youth leaders? Here are some suggestions for meeting new youth leaders in person and developing relationships (we’ll look at online tools next).

First, make sure you got your networking tool belt ready. Then…

1. Search for churches in your area using a site like Google Maps and send the youth leader(s) an email introducing yourself.
2. Drive to their church, hand them a business card, and offer to buy them lunch or coffee. Get out and go for a drive. You’re bound to pass dozens of churches in metropolitan areas. Even smaller country towns tend to have plenty of churches. Try to meet face to face, as this increases the chance of continuing the relationship, more so than dropping off a business card in their mailbox. Not to mention, everyone loves free coffee or lunch.
3. Utilize existing networks, if they exist. As you begin to meet new leaders, ask if they know of any current networks. Join up and see how you can contribute.
4. Consider parachurch or campus ministries. I met many youth leaders in the area by attending the Christian club a the local high school. I continue to meet more and more leaders in the area through Young Life as well.
5. Go to local conventions, training events, and other events for youth leaders. I find it easier to network locally at smaller, local conventions than larger, national ones. Don’t underestimate the smaller conventions! A great one in the LA area is the Urban Youth Workers Institute.
6. Meet other youth leaders at camps, conferences, or events for students. I’ve met several youth leaders this way, and we continue to work together as we minister to our kids.
7. Offer something for free, with no strings attached. I think we experience something greater than ourselves when we serve one another. We are called to serve, not to be served. This goes with the Great Commission of Ministry Networking. I try to offer up my web design skills as I meet new people.

I’m sure there a more ways to meet other youth leaders in person. What am I missing? Add your ideas in a comment below.

Up next: We’ll take a look at how to use online tools such as Twitter and Facebook to network with local youth leaders. If you want to stay up with the latest posts, be sure to subscribe to our RSS feed.