I get asked a lot why I spend time as a SigEp volunteer. I used to give a long answer about lifetime responsibility and wanting to give back. It sounded both inspirational and diligently-correct. But there is a much simpler answer: Undergraduates asked me.

Here are some tips on seeking out volunteers and getting the most out of the experience.

1. Ask for help. Most guys know you have more chances of going out on a date if you actually ask someone. So why be shy when it comes to talking to your older brothers or others who volunteer with your chapter? When you’re recruiting, you have to invite guys you have just met to events. They will be honored you asked, whether they can help, or not. They already have an interest in you.

2. Look for passion. It makes sense if you’re the chapter’s vice president of finance to seek out the Alumni and Volunteer Corporation finance chairman. That will indeed be valuable for your current position. But don’t forget to look for the person with the passion for what you want to do in the future. Having someone who is a positive influence to support you can help in many areas of your life.

3. Share your goals. When you communicate your goals, it makes them real. Tell us what you plan to do and when you plan to do it. Ask us to check on how you’re doing. You will have a solid technique to hold yourself accountable. We won’t feel like we’re nagging if we have your permission to challenge you on your progress.

4. Give us the bad news. Trust me, we all still make mistakes and learn from them. Our job is not to judge you for making a mistake. We can, however, try to help put it into perspective. We can help you reflect on what you learned from it and how it will prepare you for the future.

5. Give us the good news. Gentlemen with class take the time to update you on how they’re doing. They don’t just touch base when they need something. They also include you when they are celebrating something. Be sure to keep your volunteers updated on your own successes and the successes of the chapter.

6. Say thanks. I have been amazed at how appreciative SigEps have been. Regional directors who visit to help us instead say thanks for the time I spend with them. Active members overwhelmingly have shown their appreciation for the smallest amount of time. Just use the method you like best. A quick thank you at the time is better than forgetting to send a note later.

I am blessed to spend time with gentlemen who take the lifetime responsibility of brotherhood seriously and live it through their service to undergraduates in the chapter. I wish you well as you connect and collaborate with many others like them who are waiting to help you, if you just ask.