I recently took over as co-chair for our Resident Auxiliary. As my first order of business, I decided that I needed to boost attendance. This group is floundering and sad to say the least, and not at all supportive or fun in the way that it could be. Last year, when I went to the introductory meeting, it was a nightmare. Nothing arranged, no organization, no plans at all. I am relly quite amazed that, that many people showed up. Well, the rest of the year saw a downward trend in membership culminating with a bowling event that was attended by me and the other co-chair. Shortly after that I was asked to take over the reigns. First order of business...make it warm, friendly, and inviting. Previous events were always arranged with mass mail invitations. True, that was the only way we had to really get a hold of people, but something needed to be done here.
And so, I sent out an oh-so-desperate sounding letter asking, and practically begging people to come out with us and have fun. I emphasized the fun and the food and the free part. People had so many misconceptions about the group, it was rediclous. I also sent postage paid response cards out to people so that they could give me contact information. I sent 220 cards. I have received just over 10% of those back. Hey, let me tell you, this is a HUGE improvement. I have called people, and I think I am actually going to have a decent turnout tonight. Not great. I did receive a lot of flimsy excuses for why people couldn't attend. Honestly, it's as if people like being in a hole of residency dispair. I actually received an e-mail from a man who told me he felt my pain. He was the social coordinator for his medical school class, and gently reminded me that I can't force people to have fun. Thanks. Wow, I must have sounded more desperate than I thought!
But, all in all, I call it a success. I have new contacts, new people coming tonight, and we should have fun. I talked with a few women who were really excited about the group, and I am finally feeling like I can form a group of friends here and make some connections.
Anyway, I would love it if you all could come. I know the invitation is late, but it might be a bit far for you anyway. 6 p.m. My house. Booze, babysitters, and food provided.
And so, I sent out an oh-so-desperate sounding letter asking, and practically begging people to come out with us and have fun. I emphasized the fun and the food and the free part. People had so many misconceptions about the group, it was rediclous. I also sent postage paid response cards out to people so that they could give me contact information. I sent 220 cards. I have received just over 10% of those back. Hey, let me tell you, this is a HUGE improvement. I have called people, and I think I am actually going to have a decent turnout tonight. Not great. I did receive a lot of flimsy excuses for why people couldn't attend. Honestly, it's as if people like being in a hole of residency dispair. I actually received an e-mail from a man who told me he felt my pain. He was the social coordinator for his medical school class, and gently reminded me that I can't force people to have fun. Thanks. Wow, I must have sounded more desperate than I thought!
But, all in all, I call it a success. I have new contacts, new people coming tonight, and we should have fun. I talked with a few women who were really excited about the group, and I am finally feeling like I can form a group of friends here and make some connections.
Anyway, I would love it if you all could come. I know the invitation is late, but it might be a bit far for you anyway. 6 p.m. My house. Booze, babysitters, and food provided.
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