The Journey
A newsletter for chapter advisors, chapter officers, and regional officers.
May 2000 Issue
Putting Your Best Foot Forward at the New Member Orientation
Don't let your orientation just happen… plan ahead for optimum success!
Now that Journey Challenge 2000 is in full swing, the question on everyone's mind is “how do we recruit more members?” One of the most effective ways to do this is to examine your orientation meeting to see where improvements can be made.
One area that can greatly enhance your chapter's membership acceptance rate is a well-organized and energetic new member orientation. The real key to a successful recruitment at the orientation is not only what is done during the meeting, but what is done before, in preparation of the meeting.
A well-prepared chapter conveys a sense of confidence that is sure to impress potential members. Follow these easy steps to ensure a successful orientation:
LEAD THE WAY
- Dispel the myth that orientation is the duty of the advisor to organize and orchestrate. Get other members excited about the prospect of welcoming new members.
- Schedule an orientation planning meeting, at least one month in advance of the next orientation.
- Use the planning meeting to organize a list of tasks that need to be completed before orientation, plot the items on a calendar, and designate members responsible for each task.
LOOK AT NEW OPTIONS
- Are you scheduling the orientation meetings at convenient times? Could they be rescheduled? Consider two different meetings times, one day and one evening or weekend.
- Do you provide refreshments at orientation? Food is always a crowd pleaser.
- Could you offer a “day care” at the orientation?
- Can you set up a display announcing the time and location of your orientation? Be sure to advertise refreshments or babysitting services.
- Should you schedule follow-up communication to students who do not respond to the invitations?
- Is the time and location of the orientation meeting clearly stated in your invitation letter?
- What about producing a chapter video for showing at orientation?
PLAN FOR PRE-ORIENTATION ACTIVITIES
- Provide the college admissions office with Phi Theta Kappa information.
- Participate in your college's registration or orientation.
- Publicize Phi Theta Kappa with posters and bulletin board displays.
PREPARE AN ORIENTATION AGENDA
Be sure to include:
- Opportunities for scholarships by highlighting your area's scholarships as well as members who have received Phi Theta Kappa scholarships
- A “showcase” of chapter activities and awards, with special emphasis on the Honors Study Topic and the International Service Program
- Alumni speakers to briefly state ways that Phi Theta Kappa membership can assist with continuing education and career plans
- A college administrator or faculty member to address the value of Phi Theta Kappa membership
- All available members and officers to visit with eligible students and answer any questions
- An overview of travel opportunities to regional and international meetings
- Distribution and explanation of the Member Benefits Brochures (available upon advisor's request from Headquarters)
- A discussion of ways in which voluntary participation in chapter activities can enhance studies and time spent with families and the community
- Information on the international and regional programs supported by the required fees