Recruiting New Members

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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.