Recruitment Tips for Team Captains
1) Get the Word Out:
It only takes four people to create a team. Get three more people to join and you’ve got your own team!
- Tell your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors.
- Send an e-mail to everyone on your e-mail list.
- Post news about your involvement on your personal Web site.
- Follow up with phone calls or e-mails.
2) Get Company Support
- Ask the highest-ranking person in your organization to send an endorsement memo announcing that he or she is riding or supporting your team. The memo should also ask others to join your team. A matching gift form should be included if your company has a matching gift policy.
- Remind company officials that BP MS 150 participation is a great way to get the name and brand in front of thousands of receptive customers Ð as well as statewide media Ð in a positive, productive light.
- Ask your company to help pay for team jerseys, host a fund-raising day, etc.
- Talk to departments such as human resources and community relations for recruiting assistance.
- If your company sends newsletters or hosts its own intranet, ask to include a BP MS 150 article and photo. List participants and include your name and phone number.
- Do you belong to a chamber of commerce, professional organization, social group, alumni association or area committee? If so, promote your participation at their meetings and in their newsletters and Web sites. Issue a challenge for other group members to join you.
3) Host Sign-Up Parties at Work
- Host a breakfast, afternoon snack break or lunch sign-up rally.
- Hold a new team member registration party. Encourage each teammate to recruit at least one more person and bring him or her to the party. Award a prize to the member who brings the most number of new people.
- Mention your business competitorsÕ teams; healthy competition helps a great cause.
- Display BP MS 150 posters in central locations, such as company cafeterias, water cooler areas, gyms, library bulletin boards and other high-traffic places. Write the CaptainÕs name and phone number on the posters.
- Display a sign-up list in accessible areas.
4) Let the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Help
- Schedule a visit from a National MS Society representative to speak with potential team members at your company, class or meeting place.
- Request posters, donation cards or fund-raising videos.
- Ask to team with a Captain Veteran for advice and support.
5) Make It Personal and Create Relationships
- Be a Champion Against MS by riding on behalf of people living with MS who are unable to ride. Share their stories and your own with friends, family and co-workers.
- Form an alliance with a BP MS 150 Official Bike Store.
- Attend all pre-Tour National MS Society events.
