Marketing Basics
When marketing, you need to be able to describe your product, starting with a chapter, to any potential member. Explaining what you are doing extends to friends, family, and school administrators because they will also want to know what is happening. Men interested in joining may not be able to physically see what you are marketing, which may make it difficult to explain. That is why you need to thoroughly understand the chapter’s content and be able to describe it effectively to others.
Think of this example, and which is more appealing?
“We are starting a new fraternity…basically, it is going to be about brotherhood, and it is going to make you a better man.”
“We are starting a new fraternity…it is based on developing men to be leaders now and in the future. It will incorporate an ongoing education program, a fun social calendar, and community service to help others. Anyone who wants to join should be well-rounded, interested in growing, and committed to working hard.”
Potential members will not just come looking for you; you must actively seek them out and go to them. The following are a number of activities, areas, and ideas that can market Alpha Kappa Lambda
Flyers and Posters
One of the most “old school” marketing approaches to getting the message out on campus is to post flyers around campus and in residence halls. It is only successful if you have a catchy, clean, and direct message that people respond to. It is a tactic employed by many, but it is effective when executed well. Ensure you have permission and are aware of the guidelines for posting in specific areas and buildings on campus.
Student Organizations
One of the most effective ways to meet people and share your interests is to participate in the numerous student organizations offered on campus. You can find men who value leadership opportunities, driven individuals in student government, scholars in academic organizations, and athletes in intramural and sports organizations.
On-Campus Activities
Want to get attention on campus? Host an event! A large activity that is visible to the campus community and benefits all students drives word-of-mouth. Hosting an event in support of Alpha Kappa Lambda’s National Philanthropy, “These Hands Don’t Hurt,” is an efficiently planned event that can be great for all students to participate in and enjoy.
Social Media
The easiest way for someone to find information about a group is through social media. In our connected society, one of the most effective marketing tools is social media platforms like Facebook/Twitter/Instagram. Whether you use one or all of these, the minute you start, people can be connected to AKL. Make sure to post upcoming events, photos, and steps to join, all of which will help spread the word about the chapter
Greek Life Office
Few offices on campus are better equipped to help than the Greek Life office and its staff. These individuals will have a direct line to the fraternities and sororities already on campus and be able to help navigate early marketing efforts, provide recruitment tips, and offer any assistance that a Greek Letter organization may need. This should be one of the early areas the chapter looks to for support and learning the institution’s processes for starting a chapter.
AKL Apparel
Once you are affiliated with AKL as a chapter member, you have full rights to wear AKL letters and apparel proudly! People seeing those letters will serve as a constant reminder that Alpha Kappa Lambda is on campus and here to stay.
Student Life/Affairs
All campuses will have a Student Life/Affairs office that can provide additional marketing resources. The office name may vary from campus to campus, but they will be able to give insight into how the campus culture works and the best marketing tools that will guarantee students’ responses. Student Life/Affairs may also host a Student Organization Fair, where students can learn about the various groups and clubs available to them.
To learn more; contact the National Headquarters by email at info@akl.org or by phone 317-564-8003
