INDIANAPOLIS (September 6, 2016) — After a long and eventful summer away, members are back on campus and recruitment is already underway at many schools. But with collegiate chapters starting to table, meet potential new members and plan their year, recruitment can be hard to manage. Here are ten recruitment tips that every collegiate chapter should know:
1. You Are Always Wearing Your Letters
“Every member is a face of Alpha Kappa Psi. Be mindful, no matter who you are with or what you are doing, everything you say or do is a reflection on the fraternity.” – Allie Ochs, Ball State ’14 (Area IV Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator)
2. Define a Target Market
Classify members by different demographics whether its class standing, traditional vs. non-traditional, or by major. Determine the ideal member, which varies from chapter to chapter, and remember to keep in mind the needs of the chapter.
3. Plan a Well-Balanced Recruitment to Show All Aspects of AKPsi
Have a variety of events throughout the season; service, professional, or social. It gives a solid introduction of the different types of events AKPsi provides.
4. Host a Recruitment Workshop and Prepare the Chapter
“These workshops can help chapters discuss potential outcomes and get everyone in the same mindset. Identify your target market, practice different recruitment efforts, go over future events, and discuss overcoming objections.” – Kortney D. Petry, Ball State ’11 (Area III Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator)
5. People Judge an Organization by the People they Meet
A potential member’s first impression with Alpha Kappa Psi comes from their interaction with its members. It is possible to show the professionalism and leadership skills learned, while also being approachable and fun.
6. When Tabling, Stand in Front of the Table (Not Behind It)
“Getting out from behind the table and standing in front will make the chapter more approachable. Show your passion, be engaging and go into the crowd.” – Cady E. Tabeling, Southern Indiana ’11-Life (Area II Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator)
7. Follow-Up and Stay in Touch with Interested Students
Keep potential members engaged after getting their information – don’t let them feel like they were forgotten. Even if there is a week between events, send reminders to get them excited. If they are unable to join this time around, reach back out to them during the next recruitment period to see if they are still interested.
8. Engage with Prospective Members at Events, Not Just Brothers
“Recruitment events are a time to introduce potential members to the chapter. Even if an event consists of a presentation, after it is over, make an effort to discuss the event and get feedback.”-Alec Morand, Loyola Marymount ’14 (Area I Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator)
9. Close the Sale! Ask the Person to Join
Talking to potential members is a good way to draw them in and learn about Alpha Kappa Psi. However, until they are asked to join, they can’t start their journey to brotherhood.
10. Recruitment is Everyone’s Year-Round Responsibility
Remember to involve the entire chapter in recruitment efforts. Alpha Kappa Psi is comprised of many people from different walks of life. Have them explain to others how AKPsi has helped them grow in their professional and personal lives. Also, as the chapter hosts public events, promote it on campus for anyone to attend. Getting AKPsi’s name out there throughout the school can make it easier to recruit the next time.
