Recruiting New Members

This can be one of the most difficult parts of running a club or society, especially if your group is relatively new or specialised. Find out what you can do to increase your membership base!

Every club and society wants to grow its membership—but there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Successful recruitment is about visibility, accessibility, and creating a welcoming environment. Below are key strategies to help you attract new members and build a thriving community.

🎪 Club & Society Sign-Up and Refreshers' Fair

  • Attend Big SU Events: These events are your biggest recruitment opportunities. Over 70% of new members join during or shortly after Welcome Week and Refreshers' Fair. Make sure your group is represented!
  • Prepare Your Stall: Plan your layout in advance. Use banners, tablecloths, and props that reflect your group’s identity. Bring flyers, freebies, and a friendly team to engage with students.
  • Encourage Membership: Know your society’s webpage URL and use printed QR codes for easy sign-up. Avoid paper sign-up sheets due to GDPR—use the “I’m interested” button on your SU page instead.
  • Be Approachable: Smile, start conversations, and be inclusive. Make sure everyone feels welcome, whether they’re confident or shy.

Find out more about signup fairs

⭐ #GiveItAGo Events

  • Host Taster Sessions: These free, no-pressure events allow students to try out your activities before committing. They’re especially effective for students who are unsure or new to university life.
  • Plan and Promote: Advertise your sessions well in advance using social media, posters, and the SU website. Consider using free tickets to manage numbers and collect attendee data.
  • Make It Inclusive: Design sessions that are beginner-friendly and accessible to all. Avoid jargon and explain what’s happening so everyone feels comfortable.
  • Follow Up: After the event, thank attendees and invite them to join your next activity or become a member.

🤝 Collaborations with Other Student Groups

  • Partner for Impact: Joint events with other societies can increase your reach, share costs, and create more exciting experiences. For example, a film society and a cultural society could co-host a themed movie night.
  • Cross-Promotion: Promote each other’s events on social media and at meetings. This helps both groups grow their audiences.
  • Learn and Network: Collaborating helps you discover new ideas, build friendships, and strengthen the student community.

🏛️ Collaborations with the University and Keele SU

  • Join Major Events: Participate in university-wide campaigns and celebrations such as Black History Month, Green Festival, or International Women’s Day. These events attract large audiences and offer great exposure.
  • Work with Staff: Partner with SU or University departments to access funding, venues, and promotional support. This can elevate your events and make them more professional.
  • Academic & Campaigning Societies: Build relationships with relevant academic departments and the SU’s Student Voice team to align your activities with wider university goals and campaigns.

🔄 Continuous Recruitment

  • Keep It Going: Recruitment doesn’t end after Welcome Week. Host events throughout the year—especially mid-semester and at the end of term—to attract students who missed earlier opportunities.
  • Stay Visible: Maintain an active presence on social media, update your SU webpage regularly, and keep engaging with students at events and online.
  • Use Testimonials: Share stories and quotes from current members to show what makes your group special. Authentic voices can be powerful recruitment tools.
  • Be Consistent: A steady stream of activity and communication helps keep your group in students’ minds all year round.