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Originally posted by Smithers DX
Our chapter is seeing some very rough times. Our numbers are low, and nationals is coming down hard on us. Part of the issue is motivating our chapter to be outgoing during rush, and getting everyone to pull their weight. I was hoping maybe you might have some suggestions on how to get everyone involved. Also were a small school, and greek life has been pushed aside on campus for the past few years. There are also a large number of fraternities competing for a small population. If anyone has some innovative ideas for rush events that would be useful to. Thanks.
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Members often become more involved when they feel they are contributing to the chapter. And often, a member may not think he has anything to contribute. Simply because he hasn't been asked. As such, have each member write down at least one idea (two is better, three ideas even better) on how *they* plan on bringing in at least one new member. Make sure they understand that this is serious and that there is no wrong way or answer. (Unless it is illegal, hazing, against GLO policies, what have you) And then as FSUZeta suggested, have members team up in groups. Those that like to bowl, could go bowling. Those that like to play cards do so. Others may prefer to recruit "on their own". When applicable, allow them to do so as well. At some point, the chapter will vote on membership so you will want to be sure that all members have a chance to meet the guys. So set a date when the chapter can have an event. Maybe a cookout. Have it as an "invite only" event. If they have not already, this will afford all the members to meet the potential new members.
You can also have awards given to members for "Best Recruiter". And maybe have some prize. Say for the member who brings in the most new members, he gets excused from house cleaning for say two weeks (month). Maybe second best is excused for one week.
Get alumni to come to chapter and talk to the active members about how they do not want their legacy to go down the drain. That there is a lot at stake (HQ coming down) if there isn't a successful rush. Shame can work wonders at times.
Both members and potential members are likely to show up for an event if women are present. If the sororities are allowed to help with rush, ask a chapter(s) to help. And then repay them by offering to clean their house, helping them at an event or raising a certain amount for their philanthropy. Not only will you be getting help, but you are forging a good relationship with the sorority. Which in turn may help with recruiting more members down the line.
Since numbers are a concern by your HQ, I want to reiterate what FSUZeta and PhoenixAzul said. Once you get your pledges, y'all should start the process all over with a new set of men. If you are able to do so, recruit at least once a semester/quarter. Maybe twice a term if possible and need be.
And if y'all are not already doing so, look at recruiting from all areas of campus life. The jocks, the preppies, the good ole boys, the music majors, the brains etc. Look at all classes too.
And finally, you want to be sure that you have a good retention rate. So while working on recruiting, y'all might need to address membership retention (if it's an issue) as well.
Best of luck.
