You've made the decision to join Greek Life. Now what? First, you'll go through a process called recruitment. Recruitment is important because it gives you the opportunity to get to know different organizations as well as letting them get to know you. That way, you'll find the right fit and land in an organization where you can flourish. Not sure what to expect? Let Greek Gear help you navigate the recruitment process and share some tips for potential new members so you can get the most out of the experience.

Understanding the Recruitment Process

Recruitment is typically a week-long process that takes place in the evening hours after classes are over. Recruitment is usually informal and consists of informational sessions, barbecues and get-to-know-you activities. The pool of potential new members will dwindle as the process goes on, concluding with Bid Day at the end of the week where select potential new members will be invited to join. Recruitment typically begins very casually and becomes more formal as the week progresses. There may be themed nights and activities throughout.

Researching Greek Life Organizations

You can't participate in recruitment for every sorority or fraternity on campus, so you'll need to narrow the selection down to a few groups that you're the most interested in beforehand. You can do this by researching the different Greek Life organizations on campus. Explore their values, missions, dues or other costs and philanthropic activities. Gather as much information as you can on the chapters that are available and see which ones align with your personal interests and values. The internet is a great resource, but leading up to recruitment, each group may have a booth or display set up to try to catch the attention of potential new members. If you're trying to join a sorority, you'll want to brush up on some of the slang you might hear during recruitment.

Attending Information Sessions and Open Houses

At the beginning of recruitment, there will be a lot of information sessions and open houses. Try to attend at least one for each fraternity or sorority that you think you might be interested in. It's important to attend information sessions and open houses to not only learn about the groups, but to meet some of the key members of the organization. You'll want to make a good first impression, so make sure to dress nicely, act politely and ask meaningful questions to show your interest.

Networking and Building Connections

During recruitment events, you'll want to interact with as many members as possible and engage in one-on-one conversation whenever you can. Recruitment is for you to get to know the group, but also for the group to get to know you, so be sure to be authentic, open and outgoing. Remember to use good manners and demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization. You'll want to come across as eager to join and to participate. Use your time during recruitment to build genuine connections with members from different organizations, even ones that aren't necessarily at the top of your interest list as you never know where you might find your niche.

Being Yourself

The best advice any potential new member can receive is to be themselves. Take a little extra time getting ready and be on your best behavior, but always be true to yourself during the recruitment process. You can only find the right fit by being open and authentic throughout the recruitment process. You'll likely feel some pressure to act or dress or speak a certain way, but avoid the temptation to conform to stereotypes or expectations.

Preparing for Recruitment Events

Recruitment is meant to be somewhat casual, but you'll still need to do a little bit of prep work. Dress appropriately for each event or round of recruitment. As you progress through the rounds, they will become more formal. Some events may be themed. Always find out ahead of time what to expect and dress accordingly. This goes without saying, but always practice good hygiene and grooming. Get as much rest as possible and prepare yourself mentally for each event. It may help to review the group's website before attending if you're speaking with more than one organization.

Showcasing Your Unique Qualities

Recruitment is your opportunity to stand out and to showcase your personal strengths or interests. Practice communicating effectively and confidently during conversations. If you're not sure where to begin, try to find common ground with the members you're speaking with. Sharing your experiences or accomplishments can help demonstrate your leadership potential and connect with the existing members. If you're on a sports team, play an instrument or have any academic achievements under your belt, now would be a good time to mention them. You can also find common ground with existing members by finding one that shares your major or an affinity for a particular sports team.

Evaluating Mutual Fit

While you're searching for the perfect Greek Life organization, they're also evaluating whether or not you'd be a good fit. The potential new member and the organization have to consider their compatibility, reaching a decision based on the interactions during the recruitment process. While it's not a pleasant thought, rejection is a very real part of recruitment and it's best not to take it personally. Embrace any rejection as an opportunity to find a better fit or as a way to grow. Even if you wind up not joining the Greek Life community, there are other pathways to a fulfilling college experience.

Recruitment is your opportunity to spend a week getting to know various Greek Life organizations and for them to get to know you. Take recruitment seriously, dress the part and ask thoughtful questions. At the end of the week, you may be invited to pledge.

Related: How to Choose the Right Greek Life Organization for You