When I was in college, I worked for a national retailer and sold men’s clothing (suits, sportcoats, slacks, etc) on commission. It was a great job, taught me how to interact with the public, and God provided me a good income with after-school hours (evenings and weekends).

One thing I remember being taught was to “ask for the sale.” I’d show a man a suit, sportcoat, or slacks, and was trained to ask, “Do you want to put that on your store credit card, or will it be cash today?” Nine times out of ten, the customer told me to wrap up the sale. If I didn’t ask for the sale, the customer often hem-hawed and didn’t make a decision. Good salespersons know how to gently encourage us to make a purchase when they ask for the sale.

As a group leader, don’t be afraid to “ask for the sale” when it comes to your guests. Here are some things you could say to encourage them to “buy” what you’re selling:

• “Can I expect you to be with us again next week?”
• “May I place your name on our group’s ministry list so we can pray for you and keep you informed about our group’s activities?”
• “Would you like to go to lunch today? I’d like to get to know you and your family.”
• “What would you like to know about our church? Ask me anything.”
• “How can our group be praying for you and your family?”

You get the idea. Ask. Be direct. Don’t worry about being turned down – chances are the person will respond in the affirmative!

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