Be More Normal: Why Your Recruitment Strategy Needs a Makeover

Let’s be real—recruitment can sometimes feel awkward, right?

We’ve all been there, stuck in overly formal events, shaking hands, and making small talk that feels about as natural as the “grape” flavor of purple candy.

But here’s the thing: People join people. Not events, not flashy presentations, and certainly not stiff traditions. So, what if I told you that the secret to better recruitment is actually pretty simple? Just be more normal. It’s time to ditch the outdated playbook and focus on what really matters—genuine connections.

People Just Want to Know You

Imagine you’re at a party, and instead of enjoying yourself, you’re bombarded with a PowerPoint presentation on the host’s life achievements. Not exactly a vibe, right? Recruitment can feel like that sometimes. But what if, instead of trying to impress potential new members (PNMs) with all the bells and whistles, you just… talked to them? Like, really talked.

Phired Up’s philosophy of Dynamic Recruitment teaches that the best way to recruit isn’t through scripted events, but real conversations and authentic connections. Think about it: the reason someone decides to join your fraternity or sorority is because they feel a connection with you, not because they were wowed by a slideshow​.

Time to Toss What Doesn’t Work

We’ve all seen those recruitment practices that feel like they’ve been around since dinosaurs roamed the Earth. You know, the ones that don’t seem to do much besides stress everyone out. Here’s the good news—Dynamic Recruitment is all about letting go of the stuff that doesn’t work. Maybe it’s that rigid schedule, or the overly matching attire, or the events that feel more like a chore than a chance to connect. If it’s not helping you build real relationships, it’s time to kick it to the curb.

Phired Up’s data backs this up: successful recruitment isn’t about sticking to tradition for tradition’s sake. It’s about being flexible and focusing on what actually brings people together. If an event feels forced, it probably is. And trust me, everyone can tell​.

Relationships > Events

The best recruitment strategies aren’t about the events themselves—they’re about the people at those events. You could host the most flawless recruitment event ever, but if nobody walks away feeling like they made a real connection, what’s the point?

Dynamic Recruitment encourages you to flip the script. Instead of pouring all your energy into planning the perfect event, focus on creating opportunities for real conversations. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, chilling in the common area, or playing a quick game of pickup basketball, these low-key interactions are where the magic happens​.

And here’s the kicker: being more normal—doing stuff you normally do every day—makes these interactions way more effective. When you’re not trying to sell something, but just being real, people respond to that. They’re not just joining a fraternity or sorority—they’re joining a group of people they genuinely like and connect with.

So, What Does It Mean to Be “Normal”?

Being “normal” doesn’t mean being boring. It means being authentic. It’s about showing potential members what it’s like to actually be part of your group on a regular day. No need for the hard sell—just invite them to hang out and be part of the crew.

So, what’s the big takeaway?

Recruitment isn’t about events or traditions—it’s about people. It’s about being real, making genuine connections, and letting go of anything that doesn’t serve that purpose.

So go ahead, be more normal, and watch how it transforms your recruitment process. After all, people join people, and the more authentic you are, the more likely you are to attract people who share your vibe. It’s as simple—and as powerful—as that.

 Written by Karli Sherman, Growth Consultant