Now that you have decided on a recruitment strategy, you're ready to create specific materials to advertise and market your position.
Begin by developing an effective two-liner and member description to be posted on the Recruitment section of My AmeriCorps. For more information, click here.
You can then "tweak" it for different uses. For example, a press release can be converted into a brochure, a Web listing, or a public service announcement. Also, if there's continuity in your materials, there's a better chance the message will stick.
Here are some general guidelines for creating recruitment materials:
- Be sure to include the AmeriCorps or VISTA logo in all outreach materials. Download the logos in several formats here. You can also print a copy of the AmeriCorps media kit which has great tips for extending your outreach.
- Keep it simple: Use basic language and avoid program jargon, acronyms, and more detail than is necessary.
- Make sure contact information is up-to-date.
- Include important deadlines.
- Don't assume everyone has access to a computer or computer skills: Advertise in traditional venues as well as electronic ones and allow for "snail mail" and phone communication.
- Recruit for diversity; for more information, see the Recruiting for Diversity section of this site.
Use these sample marketing tools and guidelines as a starting point for your program:
- Creating Your Own Web Presence is a tip sheet for creating a program Web site
- Tips for Creating Posters and Flyers includes guidelines for what to say and how to say it
- Create a Press Release is a sample press release on VISTA recruiting efforts
- Retiree Press Release is a sample document that specifically targets older members
- Member Candidate FAQs is a sample flyer to answer questions and give to prospective applicants at recruiting events
- Sample flyer for multiple service positions illustrates how to showcase a variety of service opportunities
- Corpsmember Flyer illustrates how you can incorporate photos
- This tri-fold Recruitment Brochure shows how you can pack a lot of information into one flyer
Go on to Helping Partner Sites Recruit
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