Rush - What to NOT do or say

Zillini · #1 01-31-2009, 02:04 PM

I think this could depend on that chapter's situation.

If a PNM is being recruited by a small and/or struggling chapter, then the actives might be looking for candiates with new and exciting ideas. They might think a PNM who offers ideas shows she has spent time investigating this chapter, its goals, its needs, and she might be willing/able to step into leadership roles right off the bat.

However at a large/strong chapter, it could be viewed negatively. (Please note I am not saying this would always be the case, only a possibility.) A PNM offering new ideas during Recruitment could be thought of being critical of the way the chapter is currently being run. It could be seen as overly pushy because officers run the chapter, not new members who have no knowledge of chapter operations. If a chapter already has long running and successful activites, then suggestions for change could be thought of as lack of knowledge about the chapter by the PNM, or an unwillingness to be a part of the group, or worst case even disrespectful of tradition.

HotDamnImAPhiMu · #2 01-31-2009, 09:53 PM

I think it's great that she did her research (this, coming from a fellow researching nerd) and that if she presented her ideas in the right way, she could've spun the presentation of her ideas so it looked like she was eager! full of ideas! idealistic! energetic! instead of trying to boss the members into revamping their philanthropy the way she ordered them to.

als463 · #3 02-01-2009, 01:58 PM

Here's some advice-take it or leave it.

Don't ever be RUDE to ANY chapter!

The reason I say this is because I've noticed there may be PNMs that come through recruitment already decided on what chapter they want to be in. The truth is-you should go in with an open mind. As an Alumna, I think its interesting to see that sorority chapter XYZ may be #1 at State U but, when you go to Private U, it's bottom on the totem pole. In fact, you should be polite throughout recruitment because my personal belief is that if you get an invite from ANY NPC-you should be thankful because to be a member of such an incredible organization is an honor in itself.

Remember, these women in these organizations are practicing years and years of tradition. They have upheld such high standards.

When I come across a member of ABC or XYZ sorority / fraternity-I don't say, "So, was this considered a top tier chapter on your campus?" That would be dumb! Instead, I think, "Wow-this person probably gave so much to their community and university while staying involved."

Just because the chapter of your choice did not choose you and there is a chapter of lower status on your campus that truly likes you-give them real consideration because remember-these organizations would not have lasted for so long if they did rock at some campuses around the nation! Every NPC has their "not so great chapters" but, they also have their "awesome" chapters! Keep that in mind!

KSUViolet06 · #4 02-01-2009, 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by als463

My personal belief is that if you get an invite from ANY NPC-you should be thankful because to be a member of such an incredible organization is an honor in itself.

Thanks for saying this. I think PNMs could stand to remember this point all the time.

Also, and in terms of being cut by "top tier" groups. PNMs have to remember, if a chapter cut you, then they for whatever reason WERE NOT INTERESTED IN HAVING YOU BACK. It's okay to be a little upset, but eventually you just have to get over it and get on with recruitment.

The groups who invite you back are the ones who ARE INTERESTED. So I think they're always worth giving a chance, even if you aren't initially excited.

HotDamnImAPhiMu · #5 02-01-2009, 04:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by als463

Don't ever be RUDE to ANY chapter!

This is just good advice in general.

Don't trash talk other companies when you're on an interview; it makes you look bitter. Don't be condescending to the secretary; you might need her help someday. Don't burn bridges by being rude to the people at the job you're leaving - you never know when you might end up needing a reference or to be rehired.

In general: be nice to people.