Broad involvement of persons in activities of the church is key to bonding them to the body. If they have invested themselves in the church, they are less likely to drop out. Do it intentionally. Another effort of the rural church movement was to get them to assume the role of salt, light and leaven in their communities. Much work in this area is still needed for many town and country Southern Baptist churches.
Churches get reputations in their community.
Go to a church and put down roots as though you will be there for a long, long time. Do not run. Much of the best work is done after the fifth year. Yet, realize you probably will leave sometime. So major on basics, so that the next pastor can build on your efforts.