Ever feel like you’re putting in a ton of effort on social media but not getting the engagement or impact you expected? You’re not alone. The truth is, most churches approach social media with good intentions but lack a clear, effective strategy. That’s where the 80/20 rule comes in. It’s a principle that can change how you approach content and, more importantly, how you connect with your community.
Let’s make one thing clear: The 80/20 rule isn’t just a gimmick. It’s a proven concept that helps organisations, both large and small, focus their efforts for maximum results. When applied to social media, this rule can guide your church to use your digital platforms more effectively and with greater impact.
Ready to get specific? Here’s how you can use the 80/20 rule to transform your church’s social media presence.What Is the 80/20 Rule?
The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, states that 80% of outcomes come from 20% of efforts. In the world of church social media, this means that 80% of your content should be about engaging, adding value, and building community, while only 20% should be about promoting church events or initiatives.
Think about it: If every post you make is pushing people to attend a service or join a ministry, you’ll lose their interest pretty quickly. But if the majority of your content is designed to inspire, educate, and uplift your followers, they’ll be far more likely to engage with your promotional messages when you post them.Why the 80/20 Rule Works for Churches
Social media isn’t a bulletin board; it’s a community space. People aren’t scrolling through their feeds to be bombarded with announcements and events. They’re looking for something that speaks to them, resonates with their current struggles, or lifts their spirits.
Your goal should be to meet people where they are and provide value. When you focus 80% of your efforts on doing this, you’ll build trust and create a genuine connection with your audience. Then, when you do need to share a promotional message, they’ll be much more receptive.
Let’s break down what your 80% and 20% content should look like.The 80%: Content That Adds Value and Builds Community
1. Inspirational Content
People turn to social media for inspiration and hope, especially in today’s chaotic world. Share scriptures, quotes, or short reflections that are relevant to what people are experiencing. But don’t just slap a Bible verse on a pretty background and call it a day. Take the time to explain why that scripture is meaningful or how it can be applied in real life.
Example Post:
“Feeling overwhelmed? Philippians 4:13 reminds us, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ Remember, God’s strength is always available, even in our toughest moments. How can we pray for you today?”
2. Educational Posts
Your congregation is hungry for spiritual growth, so give them content that feeds their faith. This could be short devotionals, Bible study tips, or even videos explaining difficult concepts in Christianity.
Content Ideas:
- A short post on how to start a daily prayer routine.
- An explainer video about the history and significance of a particular Bible story.
- A carousel post on Instagram with practical steps for applying a recent sermon message.
Pro Tip: Break down complex topics into bite-sized content. You want people to feel educated, not overwhelmed.
3. Engagement Questions and Community Discussions
One of the best ways to foster community online is by asking questions that spark conversation. The goal is to get people to engage, share, and feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
Sample Engagement Questions:
- “What’s one thing you’re grateful for this week?”
- “How has God shown up in your life lately?”
- “What worship song has been on repeat for you recently?”
When people respond, engage back. Reply to comments, show that you’re listening, and celebrate the wins and struggles of your community.
4. Behind-the-Scenes Content
People love to see the human side of your ministry. Share photos or videos of your staff preparing for Sunday service, practicing with the worship team, or just having fun together.
Example:
“A sneak peek of our worship team rehearsing for Sunday’s service. We’re so blessed to have a team that pours their hearts into leading us in worship every week. Who’s excited for this weekend?”
This kind of content makes your church more relatable and gives people a reason to feel personally connected.
5. User-Generated Content
Have a member who’s shared a moving testimony? Or maybe someone took a beautiful photo at a church event? Share it! User-generated content not only builds a sense of community but also shows that your church is a place where real people are experiencing real change.
Tip: Always ask for permission before sharing someone’s story or content, and give credit where it’s due.The 20%: Promotional Content
Alright, let’s talk about that 20% that’s all about getting people to show up, sign up, or give. When done sparingly and strategically, promotional content can be very effective. Here’s how to make it count.
1. Event Announcements
Keep these posts clear and concise. Highlight the most important details and include a compelling reason why someone should attend.
Example Post:
“Don’t miss our upcoming youth night! Games, food, and a powerful message. Friday at 6 PM. Tag a friend who needs to be there!”
2. Calls to Action (CTAs)
Whether it’s signing up for a small group, downloading a devotional, or joining a ministry team, your CTAs should be direct and compelling. Make sure to explain the benefit of taking action.
Example:
“Ready to take your faith deeper? Sign up for our new small group series on discipleship starting this Wednesday. Spaces are limited, so register today!”
3. Giving Opportunities
This can be a sensitive topic, so tread carefully. Focus on the impact of giving rather than the act itself. People are more likely to give if they understand how their contribution makes a difference.
Impact-Focused Post:
“Your generosity is transforming lives. Last month, we were able to feed 50 families in our community because of your support. Want to help us reach even more? Here’s how you can give.
”Measuring the Impact of Your 80/20 Strategy
It’s not enough to just implement the 80/20 rule and hope for the best. You need to measure your results to understand what’s working and what’s not. Use social media analytics tools to track engagement rates, follower growth, and which types of posts get the most interactions.
Key Metrics to Monitor:
- Engagement Rate: Are people liking, commenting, or sharing your posts?
- Reach: How many people are seeing your content?
- Click-Through Rate: Are people taking action on your promotional posts?
If you notice that your engagement is low, you may need to adjust the type of content you’re sharing or experiment with different formats like videos or Stories.
Conclusion
The 80/20 rule isn’t just a clever social media trick; it’s a strategy rooted in building genuine, meaningful connections. When you focus 80% of your efforts on adding value, you’ll find that your promotional posts are far more effective. Remember, social media for your church is not just about filling seats; it’s about feeding souls and creating a community that grows together.
Now, go audit your current social media strategy. Are you giving enough value, or are you too focused on promotion? Make the shift today and watch your engagement and community grow.