One of the best ways to retain memembership is to have a close personal connection with your members. This Hot Topic is a list of some ideas I have that might help you make that connection. Feel free to share any others that work for your section, as well!
- Remember names! It’s surprising how something so little can mean and do so much.
- Make sure your officers talk to all the members, not just to each other, or the ones they know well.
- Have smaller activities and meetings, in addition to general body meetings, so members can get to know each other on a more personal setting.
- Consider establishing a big-little program that keeps the freshman engaged by giving them an upperclassmen mentor in SWE.
- Have socials devoted to bonding, which have less business and professional stuff, just to have fun with each other.
- Smile and say hi to your fellow SWE members, even if you’re just passing them in the halls.
- Get SWE merchandise, such as tshirts, hoodies, or sweatpants, and have everyone wear them on the same day.
The overall idea: make sure you focus on the personal needs of your members, in addition to the professional ones!
