Creative ideas

For example, the water balloon idea from Ohio State! (Ohio State’s team captains were able to set up a recruitment contest, where any section that registered 5 members for the THON team could have the entire section pelt the band directors with water balloons! It got them over 30 new team member registrations!)

• This is massively effective, because it is a creative and rare idea, and it has a condition that requires multiple people to sign up. The creation of slight peer pressure within sections, although not typically the goal, is successful for this since the actions of 5 people helps the whole section reap the benefits. What other crazy ideas could you come up with?

• This also helps you fundraise via registration fees, even if members don’t contribute much after.

Presentations/speaking

Although these fun ideas can gain a lot of people, simple fast presentations work well, too! Ask a director if you can give a 3 minute presentation, and plan material similar to an elevator pitch, to really motivate people to join!

Consider showing them real results. Feature short stories from past participants who had a great experience. Many people hesitate to join because they don’t know what to expect—hearing from peers makes it more approachable.

Include videos and photos! It's easier to get excited when you can see something. Find recap videos to show your band and hype them up. See below for an example presentation!

Greek involvement

Does your band have Music Greeks? KKY, TBS, etc. These groups would benefit from service hour opportunities! Ask the leaders of those groups about possible ways to provide service hours for members who attend events and help with fundraising.

Tips from captains!

• Be willing to pitch in some personal money to offer registration incentives

• Wear team merch or colors to practice- make yourself visible so people ask why you're dressed up!

• Some people hesitate to commit to an organization because they’re unsure. Instead of asking them to sign up for the full event, invite them to come to an event for only an hour—they’ll likely stay longer and see for themselves what goes on while they are there.

• Have transparency and be clear about where money goes, what we do, etc.

• Tell team members to tap into their strengths.

• Take lots of pictures at events. It is how you will promote the team next year!