While recruitment is vital and important to the success of a student organization, that doesn't mean that it doesn't come with issues as well. Here are a few potential issues that your organization could face while recruiting members.

  • Retention: The main issue regarding recruitment is how to retain students that you have recruited. Keeping people around and coming back to meetings and events can be difficult. Learn more about membership retention.

     
  • Alienation: It is often easy for the leaders or existing members of an organization to talk with each other and not with new students attending organizational meetings and programs. One negative outcome of this unwelcoming environment is a feeling of alienation - or cliques - from those who already know each other. And as a result of alienation, other negative outcomes such as discomfort, disenfranchisement, and resentment may occur. New members may choose to not participate any further if they don't feel welcome. Remember: You can talk to your friends any other time, so use time at meetings and programs wisely by introducing yourself to new students and helping them feel welcome.

     
  • Conversations: Related to the issue of alienation is the issue of creating conversation. Talking to someone you do not know may be difficult for some people. Regardless, the benefits of these simple conversations are immense because you help create a welcoming environment and friendly atmosphere. Do your best to create conversation with new members. It may feel uncomfortable or weird at first, but it is relatively easy once you get over your initial shyness or awkwardness. And on another note, conversations also include talking with your friends who do not regularly participate in your organization. During your spare time, it does not hurt to occasionally talk to them about your organization and invite them to a meeting or program. Every little conversation you have about your organization helps in a big way!