Several times this week during the PDYM Conference I heard or used this analogy myself when talking about recruiting youth ministry volunteers. I like it … not sure where it came from … feel free to add your thoughts in the comments, too:

Cast a wide net… this is where you get up on stage and tell the whole church that you’re looking for some great volunteers to help in high school ministry. You make a passionate (while trying not to sound desperate) plea for help and talk of the rewards in Heaven for serving this important part of the church. It worked! You’ll have to screen out a few of the oddballs who want to come to the next overnighter, but you scored a couple of people to join your team.

… and be sure to use fish hooks, too. This is where you go after a specific person you think might be the perfect fit for your ministry opportunity. As opposed to going after everyone and getting no one time and time again – you think, pray and consider the perfect person. Usually these people are untouchable, unaskable (I just made that word up) or don’t fit the stereotype of youth worker. But you make the ask and hold your breath. Yes!

Cast the net wide for sure, any chance you have in front of the crowd is a marketing/heart/vision opportunity that should absolutely be taken – but don’t be afraid to move into a specific person with the ask and see if they bite. You must just be surprised which is more effective.

JG