DELTA GAMMA REGION 7

How can you tell if your group is strategically ready to "attract" the most perfect DGs that are ready to serve?

There is a simple test. We call it the Lighthouse Test.

Imagine a lighthouse standing strong and tall on the rocky shores of a beautiful ocean. The water is calm, the sky is blue, and there are many boats out to sea. But, out in the distance, a storm cloud is forming on the horizon. It is coming closer to shore very quickly. The sky is getting darker, the waves are getting rougher, and many of the boats are being tossed about on the water. As the rains and the winds pick up strength, so does the power of the beam of light emanating from the lighthouse. Some of the boats, anxious to move quickly to a quiet and protective harbor, are relying on this beam of light to guide them safely to the spot. The darker the skies become, the brighter the light shines. Notice that not all of the boats need this beam of light to guide them to safety. Some have more confident captains and crew, some have equipment for handling storms safely and effectively. Now, imagine that the lighthouse gets upset because some of the boats are choosing not to come to its harbor. The lighthouse feels that it is not successful if it is not serving all of the boats in the sea. It sprouts arms and legs and runs up and down the beach, waving its arms, doing its best to catch the attention of all the boats.

What do you think would be the result?

Most likely, the boats that were depending on the light to guide them would by now be destroyed in the chaos and confusion. Other boats, led by their curiosity, may come closer to shore to get a better look at the spectacle, still others would be perfectly content to stay where they are...out at sea. Result: very few boats are served safely and securely.

Here's the test.

How often are you and your executive board, house corp, or advisory team operating like lighthouses standing securely on the shore attracting the boats (members) that need your light? How often do you run up and down the beach frantically looking for boats (members) to serve?

PERFECT MEMBERS ARE MOST LIKELY TO FIND YOU WHEN YOU ARE STANDING STILL!

It takes a lot of energy to look for people to serve. More than likely you have had the experience of having to figure out where you can find customers in the greatest numbers. You have spent much time and money experimenting, looking for the right way to catch their attention. Once you caught their attention, you have had to convince them that you are the one who has what they want. By the time you actually found someone willing to try what you have to offer, you were exhausted!

So here's a little tip. When a new DG shows up at any event take the time to get to know what makes her tick. Is she outgoing or quiet, does she love details or does she like to plan gatherings? Take this info, write it down somewhere for future reference. If a position opens up or you are gearing up for elections review this list and see if anyone appears to be a perfect fit. If so, ask if they would be interested in having FUN serving in a leadership capacity. If not, see if they know of another DG friend or pledge class sister who might be interested. Before you know it you will have fresh new faces volunteering!

Remember, it is your responsibility to stand still and keep shining your own distinctive light, to keep polishing the lens to ensure that your light has the power and brilliance to break through the darkness to attract the attention of those Delta Gamma sisters who are a "perfect fit" for you, your executive boards, house corp., and advisory teams.