The questions and answers below, along with several additional resources will help guide your chapter in how to address changes to chapter operations this academic year and reinforce the importance of personal relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the expectations for a chapter or colony operating on a campus that has resumed in-person classes, but has restrictions in place from local/state governments or its institution?
A: First chapters and colonies should always follow CDC, local, state and institutional guidance. When restrictions on gathering size are in place operations should be adapted to reflect this temporary reality. Chapters and colonies operating completely virtually are encouraged to communicate with their staff contact to brainstorm ways to maintain engagement. Chapters can utilize a few of the strategies below to continue its operations:
- Reserve multiple rooms/spaces or meet at multiple members’ residences for a chapter/colony meeting. Assign members a meeting room and utilize a virtual platform. Have one representative from the honor board at each location to count/ collect notes if necessary.
- Hold meetings through a virtual platform
- Occasionally consider holding a paper meeting and conduct any necessary business through a virtual voting method.
Q: What will the 2021 FAAR look like?
A: The 2021 FAAR will be released in April 2021. For any questions regarding the FAAR, please contact your chapter support coordinator or learn more here.
Q: What else should chapter leaders consider?
A: Chapter leaders should be even more cognizant about the length of chapter meetings held virtually.
- Attention spans are shorter in a virtual environment. Presidents and directors of standards are encouraged to refresh knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order
- Having a functioning board and committees maybe even more critical at this time to ensure the business of the Fraternity is continuing. These also provide additional opportunities to engage members.
- Consistent communication with your advisor is even more important.
- Identify a central app or website for communication and updates to members.
Q: What else should chapter leaders consider?
A: Chapter leaders should be even more cognizant about the length of chapter meetings held virtually.
- Attention spans are shorter in a virtual environment. Presidents and directors of standards are encouraged to refresh knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order
- Having a functioning board and committees may be even more critical at this time to ensure the business of the Fraternity is continuing. These also provide additional opportunities to engage members.
- Consistent communication with your advisor is even more important.
- Identify a central app or website for communication and updates to members.
Best practices for holding virtual meetings
Watch
Tips to Run an Effective Virtual Meeting (2:08)
Presence During Virtual Meetings (4:24)
Read
Phired Up - Virtual Meeting Tips
What it Takes to Run a Great Virtual Meeting
Break up Your Big Virtual Meetings
Resources on managing/
supervising remote teams
Watch
How to Collaborate Effectively If Your Team Is Remote (2:24)
Read
How Great Managers Successfully Lead Remote Teams
Building High Performing Remote Teams
How to Manage an Employee Who's Struggling to Work Remotely
Why CEO's Should Model Vulnerability
Resources on maintaining organizational culture
Watch
How to Build Trust on Your Virtual Team (3:06)
Read
44 Ways to Foster Brotherhood Virtually
Nine Ways to Boost Company Culture with Remote Workers
Blueprint for Creating Powerful Distributed Team Culture