First Impressions
What is one nonverbal cue that helps a PNM feel welcome?
Smiling, body posture, etc.
What’s a better alternative to “What’s your major?”
“What made you choose [your major]?” or “What classes have you loved so far?”
What are 2 non-verbal ways to show you’re listening?
Nodding, eye contact, etc.
What’s a safe and sincere way to bring up your chapter’s values in conversation?
“One thing that drew me here was how seriously we take…” AKA use your personal experience
A PNM gives one-word answers. What do you do?
Ask a new question, use humor, try a new topic
Name a good way to introduce yourself to a pnm in a loud room
Hi I’m [name], it’s so great to meet you- what’s your name?
Name a closed-ended question and how to turn it into an open-ended one.
EX: “Do you live on campus?” → “What’s it been like living on campus so far?”
After a convo (round), what should you write down to help remember the PNM?
Her name, key interests, any standout moment (target qualities)
Share one non-cliché story that shows real sisterhood.
Any short, heartfelt story *judged on authenticity
What do you do if you forget her name mid-convo?
"I’m so sorry, I want to make sure I remember your name—can you remind me?"
Role-play the perfect 15-second intro to a nervous PNM
Judged based on tone, empathy, and clarity
List 3 “conversation killer” questions or phrases
“So… yeah,” “Cool,” “I don’t know what else to ask,” etc.
Your PNM said she loves volunteering. How can you tie that into your chapter’s philanthropy?
“That's something I love about our philanthropy because…”
What are 2 ways to relate a PNM’s values to your chapter?
Shared philanthropy passion, similar academic focus, etc.
You’re tired and zoning out. Name 3 ways to reset.
Switch topics, deep breath, activity stations in rounds
What should you avoid doing with your hands during recruitment convos?
Fidgeting, crossing arms, touching face excessively
You’re midway through a conversation and the energy drops. Name ways to naturally re-energize or redirect conversation without making it awkward/forced
Light, fun questions. Compliment something she said earlier and expand on it. Bring up something happening around you
Describe how you could appropriately use the “echo” technique (Repeating or rephrasing what someone said to show understanding) in a conversation with a pnm to show active listening
So you said you like to _, tell me more about that, etc.
Describe the difference between “selling” your chapter vs. sharing your experience.
Selling = scripted; Sharing = genuine, story-based
The PNM is dominating the convo. How do you redirect?
Gently shift with a question about something else
Your PNM seems stiff and awkward. Name 3 ways to put her at ease.
Gentle humor, asking about her interests, giving sincere compliments, etc.
Role-play turning a one-word answer into a deeper conversation.
Judged on follow-up question quality and comfort level
Role-play a 60-second convo and quiz the partner on 3 details she heard.
Partner recalls 3 facts correctly
Role-play a convo where a PNM expresses anxiety about fitting in.
Judged on empathy, tone, and helpfulness
Role-play recovering from an awkward silence.
Judged on smoothness and creativity