Sorority recruitment is like one interview after another. At each sorority, a potential new member will have several minutes of conversation to meet members of the chapter and make a good impression. Standing out in a positive way is critical when the sorority members are meeting so many women and must make membership decisions based on these interactions.
Planning ahead for conversation topics will eliminate part of the stress of knowing what to talk about at each party. Thinking through ideas ahead of time will also lessen the chances of impulsively bringing up an inappropriate topic in the stress of the moment.
Prepare Recruitment Conversation Topics Ahead of Time
Sorority membership recruitment is the time to shine. Be prepared to share something memorable and unique that will help the sorority women remember the conversation. Acceptable topics include career aspirations, a favorite vacation spot, an interesting work experience, and a hobby or skill that stands out.
It is also important to show at least a basic knowledge about each sorority during conversations. A little research on the national and campus websites will reveal what is important to each sorority. Being familiar with their philanthropy and where they excel on campus (athletics, leadership, cheer, etc.) will demonstrate an interest to the members. However, it is possible to overdo it. Showing too much knowledge may come off as obsessive or stalker-like. Simply express a friendly interest that shows an effort to get to know a bit about them ahead of time.
Topics to Avoid During Sorority Recruitment Conversations
There are topics that are taboo during sorority recruitment. It is never acceptable to speak negatively about another sorority. No matter how much someone may dislike a group or how badly someone may have been treated at a sorority function, it will only reflect poorly upon the potential new member. Sorority members have friends in other sororities, and the sorority being disparaged may be their favorite chapter on campus after their own. In speaking negatively about another group, the potential new member has probably eliminated her chances at both.
It is also generally said to avoid the three Bs – Boys, Booze and Bible. Discussing boyfriends, parties, drinking and the like is taboo. So is discussing controversial topics such as religion and politics. Although most sororities have a cross-section of members both politically and religiously, it is very difficult to have a positive and meaningful discussion about topics such as these during a recruitment party. It is best to avoid them altogether.
Smile and be Genuine at Recruitment Events
The bottom line for a positive recruitment conversation is to be friendly and genuine. Smile, demonstrate a sincere interest in meeting the other women, and make a valuable contribution to the conversation by speaking intelligently and openly. Putting on a show in order to impress the sorority members rarely comes off well. They are looking for real women with much to offer, not someone who is trying to play a role.
Preparing for sorority recruitment increases a potential new member's chances of finding the best sorority home. By avoiding common mistakes made during recruitment most women will discover a chapter that is right for them and won't have to wonder why they failed to receive a bid. Planning for successful conversations is a big part of this sorority recruitment preparation and greatly increases a woman's chances of enjoying all the benefits of sorority membership.
Sallie Schaaf Borrink - Sallie Borrink is a professional writer with extensive experience with business clients, the consumer market, and online destinations.
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