Going through formal recruitment as a potential new member (PNM) can be really stressful. Once I was initiated, I was extremely happy for many reasons, but also because I was not going to be in a stressful situation making decisions between sororities. One thing no one ever told me was that being on the other side during the recruitment process can be just as nerve-wracking as being a PNM. For all of sorority women going through recruitment as an active member, this is for you.
The first thing I want to say is: try to be prepared for anything. This is not to intimidate you whatsoever, but before the doors open and the PNM's enter, have an open mind. You never know who you will meet—there are women from all different walks of life and are all unique. There will be some questions that leave you without answers and some that you can answer without even thinking. The best advice I can give is to be honest to them. If you do not know the answer to a question, there is nothing wrong with admitting that you don't have an exact answer. If the question is more generalized and not specific about your sorority, you can refer them back to the Rho Gamma's.
You should also be prepared not only mentally, but prepare for worst case scenarios. For example, if the board you worked on so hard is falling apart, luckily you have some extra tape in your bag, or the never-ending need for bobby pins for yourself and others as well. Try to keep things you always need close (hairspray, lotion, fashion tape, etc.). If you need to wear heels, bring a pair of comfortable shoes with you so you can change in and out of easily.
Think of recruitment like a first date. I don't mean it because of the romantic aspect. On a first date, you always want to give the best first impression. You make sure you look good, probably spent the entire day choosing an outfit or doing your hair/nails. Recruitment is no different except for the fact that you already know what you will wear. So get dolled up but keep it clean and classy. It's not changing who you are, you just want to make a good first impression.
Really try to make a connection with the PNMs. I'm not saying you are going to become best friends or anything, but you can certainly scratch the surface and start a real bond. You never know, maybe talking about scarves will lead to more conversation and before you know it, you found your rush crush. It's a real thing. It may not happen to everyone, so do not go in expecting anything. Just stay cool, and if it happens YAY! But do not be disappointed if it didn't.
Now that we are on the topic, if you find a girl that you just want to hug and keep because you freaking love her already, then really give it all you have. There would be nothing worse than if the girl you want as your sister-daughter (AKA, Little) would join a different sorority. So whenever you can talk to her, make sure she feels welcomed. It will pay off on bid day when you can tackle her.
Talk to older members about your concerns about the actual process. Never, ever talk about PNMs. That's a rule of thumb. However, if you have some questions that came up during a round of recruitment, make note of them and ask you sister-mom or any older member who can help out.
I could go on and on about other things, but this is the most important stuff. The women going through recruitment are not looking for a cookie-cut mold of what Greek life is supposed to be, they want real bonds. Be genuine, be sincere, be happy, and most importantly: BE YOURSELF.
