4 tips to help you meet potential new members

Between recruitment and Fall Welcome events, there will be many opportunities to meet potential new members and grow your chapter. Here are some tips for getting to know new people as you attend events this semester. 

Make the first move 

By making the first move, you can help potential new members feel welcome and at ease. When someone stops by your table at the Be Involved Fair or attends a recruitment event, try to be the first to introduce yourself. Taking on the responsibility of breaking the ice can help potential new members feel more comfortable and allow you to get to know them better.   

Use icebreaker questions 

Have a few icebreaker questions in mind to help keep the conversation going after introductions. Once you learn about the potential new member’s major and where they’re from, here are a few questions you could ask: 

• What do you like to do in your free time? 
• What was your favorite thing you did this summer? 
• What is your favorite thing about your hometown? 
• What TV show(s) are you watching currently? 
• What class are you looking forward to the most this semester? 

Pull others into the conversation 

As you get to know potential new members, you may learn they have things in common with others in your chapter. For example, a potential new member you’re speaking with might be from the same city, have the same hobby or be in the same academic program as a current member you know. If possible, try to pull other chapter members into the conversation or introduce them later to help make connections. 

Be mindful of Greek life terms 

Potential new members might not be familiar with terms or abbreviations related to fraternity and sorority life. You can help keep events inclusive and welcoming by using other terms during recruitment or explaining what they mean during conversations. For example, instead of introducing someone as your “little,” you can add context by saying that person is your little sister/brother, and you serve as a mentor to them as their big sister/brother. 

When your conversation ends, thank the potential new member for participating in your event. Share that you were glad to meet them and any details for follow-up recruitment events they should attend.  

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