5 Common Digital Mistakes Churches Make (and How to Fix Them)

Why Digital Mistakes Matter

Your church’s mission is timeless — but how you reach people must adapt. Many churches are doing incredible ministry in person but unintentionally limiting their impact online. The good news? Most digital mistakes are simple to fix once you know what they are. Some of these things, I’m working on getting better myself.

At Seekers Digital, we help churches and nonprofits strengthen their online presence so they can focus on what matters most: people. Let’s look at five common mistakes churches make online — and how you can avoid them.

 

1. Outdated or Hard-to-Use Website

The Mistake:
A church website that looks like it hasn’t been updated in years (or doesn’t work on mobile). Visitors can’t find basic info like service times, location, or what to expect.

Why It Hurts:
Your website is your digital front door. If people can’t find you online, they might never visit in person.

The Fix:

  • Ensure your website is mobile-friendly.

  • Put the most important info (service times, address, “What to Expect”) front and center.

  • Refresh the design at least every 3–4 years.

 

2. Inconsistent Social Media Presence

The Mistake:
Posting three times in one week, then disappearing for months. Or, only using social media for announcements.

Why It Hurts:
Inconsistent posting makes your church look inactive or disconnected. Social media is where your community checks in every day — if you’re not there, you’re missing opportunities.

The Fix:

  • Pick one platform your people use most (often Facebook).

  • Commit to a simple rhythm — even just 1–2 posts per week.

  • Mix in encouragement, scripture, and stories along with event info.

 

3. Ignoring Your Google Business Profile

The Mistake:
Not claiming your church’s Google listing, or leaving old service times, photos, and contact info.

Why It Hurts:
Most people search “church near me” on Google Maps. If your info is outdated or missing, they may never show up.

The Fix:

  • Claim and verify your Google Business Profile (free).

  • Update service times, address, and contact info.

  • Upload fresh photos regularly (building, services, staff).

  • Ask members to leave reviews.

 

4. No Clear Online Giving Option

The Mistake:
Only offering in-person giving, or hiding the giving option deep inside your website.

Why It Hurts:
People give when it’s simple. Without clear online giving, you may miss donations — especially from younger or remote supporters.

The Fix:

  • Use tools like Tithe.ly, Pushpay, or even PayPal.

  • Place a “Give” button in your website’s main navigation.

  • Offer multiple options (one-time, recurring, text-to-give).

 

5. Forgetting to Track and Measure

The Mistake:
Posting content or updating your site — but never checking what’s working.

Why It Hurts:
Without data, you don’t know if your efforts are connecting. You may waste time on platforms your community isn’t even using.

The Fix:

  • Use Google Analytics (free) to track website visits.

  • Monitor engagement (likes, shares, comments) on social media.

  • Adjust based on what resonates — repeat what works, drop what doesn’t.

 

Start Small, Build Momentum

Mistakes happen — but fixing them can transform the way your church connects with people.

Start by choosing one area to improve this week — update your website homepage, post a verse on Facebook, or refresh your Google listing. Small, consistent steps make a big impact.

👉 At Seekers Digital, we help churches build strong digital foundations. If you’d like a free digital presence audit, let’s connect and see how we can serve your ministry.

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Why Every Church Needs a Strong Digital Presence (and How to Get Started)