Before recruitment, we have a recruitment workship. The Recruitment Chairman hands out a folder to each member full of details on recruitment - how each party will run, reminders on what to wear, conversation tips, interesting facts about Pi Phi to share with PNMs, etc.
During the recruitment workshop, we do a lot of activities which simulate interaction with PNMs. This is especially helpful for first time rushers. For example, the RC will hand out a list of typical questions asked by PNMs and we all get into groups and come up with good answers to these questions. They might include questions about joining a greek organization in general, our philanthropy, questions about money, etc. and some tougher questions, too. In these groups, we also brainstorm topics to discuss with PNMs (classes, how she's enjoying her first week of college, roommates, etc.) and ways to start conversations with PNMs (what did you do over the summer, etc). Sometimes, making small talk and answering tough questions about your house or Greek life in general are the most difficult part of recruitment, and it helps to practice this before you actually have to do it.
Practicing any songs you plan on using during recruitment (entrance and exit songs and chants, etc.) is also a good idea. If your chapter is anything like mine, everyone most likely needs the practice.
Plus, doing the songs and chants is a fun "break" from the stress of preparing for recruitment.
Generally, we hold a recruitment workshop the evening before Formal Recruitment begins. After the workshop - you know, when everyone is good and stressed out about the coming day - we usually do a fun sisterhood activity. This year, for example, the recruitment chairman had purchased a bunch of facial and manicure supplies. We dimmed the lights, put on soothing music, and enjoyed pampering ourselves before the craziness of recruitment began the next morning. Thus, not only was the evening productive, it brought everyone together for some fun and relaxation - two things often mission from the recruitment process.
(Apologies for the length of this post!)