Selecting orientation leaders is one of the most important aspects of orientation program planning. Orientation Leaders (OLs) play an essential role in setting the tone for new students, family members, and staff.
Here are a few things to consider to make the process easier to tackle!
Orientation Leader Online Application
1. Use an electronic method for applications and signing up for interview times.
If your campus doesn’t have a system that does not charge your department, use the internet to find free resources to use.
2. Create a clear and concise application.
Be very clear in the application about the minimum requirements for applicants such as grade point average, the number of units completed, and any other special needs that are necessary for students to apply for this leadership opportunity.
3. Decide on a salary (if necessary). Before posting a position for OLs, be sure to find out if you are required to pay them. If you do, you’ll need to account for this in your overall budget, along with housing, meals, uniforms, and giveaways to incoming students. Here’s where we can help, browse our products for all your orientation needs!
Establish an Interview Process
1. Create and post an application.
Make sure to set the application deadline early enough so you have time to screen and interview candidates.
2. Decide on the interview process.
Group interviews and/or individual interviews? Decide what’s best for your need and ask colleagues to help as well.
3. Enlist the help of former OLs.
They are usually thrilled to be remembered and love still having a hand at helping with orientation. They also understand what leadership skills are needed in new OLs. Their input is invaluable.
4. Set interview dates and times and notify your applicants.
Decide which dates and time work best for you, your co-interviewers and the applicants. An easy way to avoid multiple time conflicts, and make it easier to find a space to reserve on campus, is to set a Saturday all-day interview session. If you go this route make sure to also schedule multiple breaks for the interviewers and provide refreshments and meals or snacks for the group. Also, take into consideration if any of your staff interviewers are required to be paid overtime for working on a weekend. At the end of the day review all your candidates and make your selections that day.
What Makes a Great OL?
Remember, Orientation Leaders (OLs) play an essential role in welcoming and setting the tone for new students and their family members. They should be energetic, engaged, and ready to help make orientation a success!
They should also look the part. Make sure your OLs have a “uniform” whether that be t-shirts, polos, or jackets that make them easily identifiable by your orientation attendees. As an added bonus, stock up on fun giveaways to have your OLs give out during the event.
We hope these tips make your next orientation event a success!
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