How to Actually Build Your 500-Name List (The System)

You know you need a big list. But how do you actually build it?

Let me show you the practical system.

The Two-Phase Framework

Phase 1: Name Collection (14 hours)
Build your list of 500+ names. Just names and basic relationship context—nothing more.

Phase 2: Contact Information (36-86 hours)
Gather phone numbers and emails. Start with top priorities and work down.

Don't do both simultaneously. You'll get overwhelmed.

Get the names first. Everything builds from there.

The Three Cs Filter

Every person you add fits at least one:

Christians — Actively follow Jesus
Community — Part of your life
Connected — Would recognize your name and face

If they fit one, add them. Don't overthink it.

The 14-Hour Breakdown

• Hour 1: Top 25 Legacy Partners (25 names)

• Hour 2: Current & Past Donors (40 names)

• Hour 3: Mission Trip Participants (40 names)

• Hour 4: Church Connections (50 names)

• Hour 5: Facebook (40 names)

• Hour 6: Instagram (30 names)

• Hour 7: LinkedIn (35 names)

• Hour 8: Family & Extended Family (50 names)

• Hour 9: Childhood & High School (45 names)

• Hour 10: College & Grad School (50 names)

• Hour 11: Career History (45 names)

• Hour 12: Neighbors & Community (40 names)

• Hour 13: Special Events (40 names)

• Hour 14: Final Review (reach 500+)

The One-Category-at-a-Time Rule

Focus on one category at a time. Don't jump around.

Why? Your brain works through association. When you focus on "college," you remember college people. Switch to "church," different memories activate.

Staying focused means you remember everyone.

The Process for Each Hour

Step 1: Prime your memory (5 min) — Look at old photos or social media

Step 2: Write without filtering (40 min) — Just write names. Don't judge or predict.

Step 3: Add context notes (15 min) — Brief relationship context for each name

What to Track (Phase 1 Only)

Keep it simple:

1. Name

2. Relationship (how you know them)

3. Category (Christian/Community/Connected)

4. Source (which hour)

5. Brief notes

Don't gather phone numbers yet. Just get names down.

Ready? Start with Hour 1.

The system works. You just have to work the system.