Aims of this guide:

1. To help DJO members recruit on the zone in less time.
2. To provide DJO members with many different techniques to try when recruiting.
3. To help possible recruits by obtaining the maximum possible information in the least possible time.

This ultimately will lead to more recruits successfully completing bootcamp, and more squadrons in the TRA/TFA.

CHAPTER 1: What does recruiting involve? And why should I recruit?

Definition of "Recruit":

1. To seek out and engage (persons), as for work or military service.

2. To strengthen or raise (an armed force) by enlistment.

CHAPTER 2: MAIN RECRUITING TECHNIQUES

I have tried all of these techniques, but I will not give my opinion on them – that is for you to decide by trial and error.

By the end of this guide, you should be able to judge what methods will be effective and which methods won’t be as good. But, do try them all, and send me your feedback – which ones did you find most effective?

This is perhaps the most common recruiting technique used by DJO members – and it’s the one I use the most, because it makes use of most of the zone’s resources and is easier to keep track of what you are doing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:

A recruiting room is made, and adverts are broadcast to the main chat area every two minutes.

Recruiters may also answer questions to recruits and in most cases, guide them through the signup process.

How-to:

Log into the zone, with your TRA/TFA uni. Important that.

Make a room between games 1-10 if possible. They are the rooms you first notice when you initially enter the room – and I have found out (by asking) that this is where people not in a squadron look for the "good games".

Make a title something like "TRA/TFA recruiting" or "Join TRA/TFA!" Join TRA/TFA is clearer, so I suggest you use that one.

In the "Settings" option at the top of the room, you need to put a welcome message and perhaps some key points before they join.

NOTE: From now on I’ll be using just TRA as the default club. Sorry imps ;)

Some pre constructed ones for you to paste in are:

Welcome! Join TRA here!

There is no flying test needed, and we are one of the largest X-Wing Vs Tie Fighter Squads on the Internet.

If you are interested, speak to me for more info.

Hey!

Like to join?

No flying test needed! Any questions ask me!

Use the one above only if you are doing other things and don’t have much time to speak to recruits, or you aren’t very good at explaining things.

These are only guidelines by all means make your own!

You are probably much more creative than me – invent something witty and original that they’ll remember – even if they don’t want to join!

Behavior – when people join your room DON’T salute them - they won’t know what you are on about.

Be friendly at all times, and UNDERSTANDING – remember – some of them won’t even know what X-Wing verses TIE fighter or a Web Page are!

For more info, see types of recruit section.

You must start with a direct approach.

"Hey! Like to join?"

This is the best thing you can do.

Now it’s pretty easy. Just sit there and wait for more people to come in, repeating the "Like to join?" question then answering any questions.

Also, you can further your recruiting campaign by "advertising" in the main chat room.

NOTE: Don’t Flood. Be sure that your advert doesn’t appear twice on the same screen. Wait until the text scrolls up and the message can’t be seen, then type/paste it again.

Also, don’t use caps.

Here are some messages for you to use, or guidelines for you to create your own.

*** JOIN TRA (The Rebel Alliance) in game x. You can take part in WOW (Week of War) and other organized tournaments and games. We are one of the largest clubs and are always in need of new members! ***

*** JOIN TFA (TIE Fighter Alliance) in game x. You can take part in WOW (Week of War) and other organized tournaments and games. We are one of the largest clubs and are always in need of new members! ***

Again not very original. You want to make a message that attracts peoples attention to your game.

OTHER POINTS TO NOTE:

It’s fine to have another TRA member in there to help you, but don’t have any more than 2 of you in there – the room (at peak) will get full quickly…if this happens, it would be best if your friend makes a room next or near to you so you can cope with the "demand".

DON’T have a TFA member in there if you are recruiting for TRA and vice versa. It may create confusion for the recruit, and the temptation is too great to say "Join TFA instead!" – it’s happened to me a few times – you have been warned!

Again, Don’t FLOOD or write too many messages at once.

It’ll annoy people and may even get you in trouble with a sysop if present.

Try not to use too many CAPS in your adverts…it’s now against the zone code of conduct to use excessive caps in an ad/message.

NOTE THE NAME OF THE MEMBER and ask him/her what his TRA name will be so they can be assigned to your squad.

When a recruit you recruited has completed their tests place a message on the recruitement comlink with your name and your squad name, and the pilot name - requesting he joins your squad. Rememebr - if they are not in your area - they will join a different wing. (e.g. USA and Euro)

Remember – recruiting takes time, and that the member who just joined your game doesn’t even know what TRA is…

So don’t salute them, and also it may be a good idea not to use abbreviations for now, as they may not be familiar with them. E.g. BRB = Be Right Back and also XvT – I’ve used it a few times and some of them didn’t know what I was talking about.

2.Advert method

BREIF DESCRIPTION:

Messages are sent to the zone main chat every so often with an advertising message including the enlistment URL to join TRA.

This is the easiest form of recruiting, but probably one you’d want to avoid.

Only use this if you don’t have much time on your hands but still like to do your bit for TRA.

This is best used during WOW…you want to fly as much as possible, but still like to recruit.

Again, keep in mind the flood warnings I have given to you and create a message…If during WOW time you will want to emphasize on the Week Of War and that you can take part in it, and what it is all about.

NOTES: This one must include the enlistment URL otherwise they won’t know where to go.

DON’T forget to say that there is NO FLYING TEST REQUIRED.

Also mention that TRA is FREE…you’d be surprised how many times I have been asked if you have to pay.

3. Zone Message Method

BREIF DESCRIPTION:

A TRA member goes into the zone and Zone Messages all the zone members without a squad uni before their name.

The TRA member asks if they would like to join - perhaps with a pre constructed message.

This method works, it just depends who you ask.

It’s the most direct of all methods, i.e. they have to read the Zone message (they notice it as soon as it pops up)

Ask someone – "Hi there! Like to join TRA? (The Rebel Alliance?)"

Or your own message – but bear in mind Zone messages do have a tight text limit.

Before you do this make sure you don’t have privacy, away or DND on – otherwise they won’t be able to reply!

If they say OK tell them the sign up page, (enlistment URL) and explain that there is no flying test required, and that you’ll be happy to answer their questions if need be.

If they don’t reply within a couple of minutes, then it looks like they won’t…also if they say "No" then thank them for their time…DON’T hassle them you could give the club a bad name. If you really don’t want to just "give up" you could say – "Well thanks for you time…have a think about it."

Always be polite, even if others are not.

If you get abuse, just put them on ignore. Don’t bother retaliating.

Persevere with this method, it works…and it works well.

CHAPTER 3: Getting their attention

You have seen the recruiting techniques/methods.

But, you have to be original and get their attention if you want them to join your recruiting room or indeed TRA over some other club.

Now, I’m sure that you have your own ways in doing this, but if you want to attract members you have to make your game standout.

Here are some ideas to get you started. If you have any good ideas send them to me, so I can include them in the next version of this guide.

Those are all I have for now.

Send me your own ideas, which will attract people’s attention…I know you can think of more ;)

These are important, but usually "less formal" than the other methods.

CHAPTER 4: Questions and answers

To help you, I’ve tried my best to include some FAQ from recruits and the best possible answers.

You can copy and paste them in, but it would be better to read them a few times, so you know it by heart, and can add to it or adapt it depending on the situation.

Q: Why would I want to be in a Squadron?

Usually comes up, has done for me a couple of times.

The main points to consider here are the wars and meeting new people, and your flying skills improve.

But, I cannot really define this for you. This will be different for every TRA/TFA member…you may have different views on what a squadron is and why it is better than not being in one.

Some may argue that there are more commitments, others may argue that that’s a good thing.

I’ve made what I think the benefits of being in a squadron are…but don’t say it if you don’t agree with it.

"The benefits of being in a squadron are the fact that there is it is so much more involving.

You are part of a team, fighting for fun and for the victory of your squadron!

You meet many new people and make new friends…in TRA alone there are people from all over the world – with whom you can discuss flying tactics, have jokes together, fly together and generally talk pure Star Wars.

You will find that your flying skills will greatly improve.

In the training process alone are tips that will make you a top class melee pilot in no time.

You can take part in organized melee wars, tournaments and discussions and meetings…with ease.

The best thing about TRA is that you don’t have to be a Jedi Master and beat everyone you play…you just have to enjoy the game! That’s what is ultimately comes down to. Fun and enjoyment for you, for everyone involved."

NOTE: You must give them time to read this!

Q: What’s TRA/TFA?

If you don’t know the answer – you should leave now!

Although, you should go into a bit more detail than "The Rebel Alliance."

A sophisticated answer would be:

"TRA stands for The Rebel Alliance. It is a large "Squadron" that has been going strong with over 200 members for a long time now.

It has a large, sophisticated database, it’s own domain (no more angelfire and tripod clans) and a team of incredibly devoted and able officers and always welcome new members to join in and share the experience."

I got a bit carried away, but you may want to use that instead of "The Rebel Alliance" – remember first impressions are everything.

NOTE: This won’t fit in a ZM.

TFA members might want to add "Two years" in the place of "A long time now."

Q: How do I join?

OK you need to put across two key points – No flying tests required…and the bootcamp tests, and of course, the enlistment URL.

Here is a template reply I have created for you:

"There are no flying tests required to join TRA/TFA.

There, you will progress through our "Automated training process" where you will learn all about DarkJedi, as well as top tips on how to improve your melee skills.

After each page, you will have to take a test, this is only to enhance your knowledge and help you fit into DarkJedi quickly."

That is only a template.

NOTE: That’s a big amount of text. Make sure you give them enough time to read it before you write anything else.

Q: What’s this ICQ?

This is a tough one, to explain to someone who has no idea what it is.

So, I’ll give you this answer to help you out.

"ICQ is a revolutionary communications tool.

You can add other people with ICQ to your "Contact List."

This allows you to see when they are online, and you can send a message instantly to them.

This is like AOL instant messenger – but much, much better.

It’s also free and easy to use. It’s because of these reasons it is required to join DarkJedi. You can sign up now without it, and the training commander will send you an email as soon as he can about it, but it is recommended that you download it now."

Again, give them time to read it all.

The next question they’ll probably ask:

Q: Where do I download ICQ?

A: http://www.icq.com/download

Direct download link.

Q: What is this WOW?

Describe it as best you can, probably better than this template:

"WOW (or Week of War) is the biggest zone X-Wing verses TIE Fighter event.

It involves over 30 clubs and over 1 thousand participants.

TRA is part of WOW, and when you join you can take part in this event.

WOW is basically playing melees against other squadrons - winging with TRA members as much as possible.

The results of the game are then reported to Battlestats.com database (the same people who created TRA) which displays results in all different categories…e.g. total points, kills/death ratio, games won…in total or for each ship.

This is the best XvT and possibly Star Wars gaming experience you will ever encounter…the best way to learn and show off your skills…you become immersed in this awesome and magical experience."

Battlestats is described briefly in there, but you don’t want to confuse them with so many new things all at once.

If you do want to tell them about BSC…do it slowly…and make sure that they want to join first!

Those are all the FAQ’s I can think of and the ones that are most common. If you think of any more which should be included in here, or that you have encountered yourself, get in touch.

You will encounter many different types of potential recruits when you are recruiting on the zone.

From the complete newbie to the experienced gamer.

This chapter briefly describes what different types of people you may encounter, and how to deal with them.

The Newbie:

Oh dear, you have got some work on your hands.

If you are determined to bag every recruit you see…you may have a lot of explaining to do.

If you don’t want to hang around or hate explaining things it’s probably best to say "Check the page out, but I’m afraid I’m not very good at explaining things.

Once you’ve been on the zone for a few weeks you’ll get used to it" – remember be polite at all times.

I hosted up a game, one newbie said – "Ok so what’s Xwing Vs TIE fighter?" – you can imagine the work I had to do to get him to understand XvT!

I think he signed up but didn’t get anywhere in the tests.

But, in general, the newbie has played XvT on the zone…but is just not clear on this whole "squadron" thing.

Not a real problem, either use the template in the FAQ section or explain it in detail.

NOTE: In the "Staying in touch" section, the newbie is the type of recruit you’ll want to stay/get in touch with.

Enthusiastic recruit

I’ve come across many a recruit who are keen to join TRA/TFA.

One so keen in fact, he kept Zone Messaging me every time he passed a test and what score he got!

If you get one of these, all you really need to do is tell them the sign up form and answer any questions they may have.

You may also like to explain briefly about DarkJedi and how it is different from other squadrons, as to get them even more interested.

The "Average" person

Enjoys playing on the zone, knows a bit what squadrons are, just needs a little more explaining about wars and other events.

I have encountered these types of people the most, and when you deal with them often, it more or less becomes routine, and you know what you and that person are going to say!

For example, see how many times something like this happens.

(Enter) Yoda899

TRA_Airdra> Hey!

Yoda899> Hi

Yoda899> what’s TRA?

TRA_Airdra> TRA stands for The Rebel Alliance. It is a large "Squadron" that has been going strong with over 200 members for a long time now.

It has a large, sophisticated database, it’s own domain (no more angelfire and tripod clans) and a team of incredibly devoted and able officers and always welcome new members to join in and share the experience.

Yoda899> Cool

TRA_Airdra> Like to join TRA then?

Yoda899> Yes

TRA_Airdra> Ok…cool…go to

Yoda899> I will

TRA_Airdra> Any questions just let me know.

Yoda899> Will do.

TRA_Airdra> Good luck!

Above is an example of how a recruit will act initially on joining. This is what I call the "Common Scenario".

The rest depends on how many questions they have afterwards.

Been there, done that

This is the kind of person who doesn’t need any explaining about squadrons, but perhaps some explaining about DarkJedi and how it is different.

Almost definitely been in a squadron before, and probably heard of TRA before.

If they ever start to be hostile to you and mouthing off TRA simply boot them from the room.

The one where it all goes wrong

Surprisingly, I have had quite a few of these.

The kind of person who doesn’t have anything you need to get into DarkJedi… No email address, no ICQ etc.

If faced with this situation you must not pressure them into getting an email or ICQ…just say "Well, if you want to join TRA, I’m afraid they are required, as they are vital to communication."

Don’t give up hope. Be patient, and if they genuinely do want to be in TRA they will go out and get an email and ICQ – if not then they can’t have been that bothered about it.

In this chapter you have seen the main categories of recruits and how to deal with them.

If you come across a type of a recruit not mentioned here email me a description of the type.

OK, so you’ve managed to get a recruit into bootcamp!

Congratulations – that is not an easy task.

But how do you ensure that they get through bootcamp?

It’s a fact that most recruits don’t get past the 2^nd or 3^rd tests…and just disappear.

You’ve done the hard work – got him/her to join DarkJedi.

Now you can make them be even sure to finish all their tests and also to feel much more welcome and relate the name "TRA/TFA" to a name.

The person who sends out the email should usually be the person who recruited them…but I encourage FLs, XOs, SLs, WCs and perhaps FA’s to get in touch with potential members of TRA/TFA that will be under their command. If not just to say hi.

Here’s an email template you may like to use when you are emailing a recruit. You don’t have to, it’s just that it would be much nicer for them to receive a friendly email and make a new friend that can look out for them when the are assigned to your/a squadron.

As I said earlier, if you recruited what seemed to be a newbie, it’s even more beneficial if you email them.

***Begin Transmission***

TO: [Name of recruit]

FROM: [Your position] [Your rank] [Your Nickname]

SUBJECT: Welcome to TRA/TFA!

<Salute>

Firstly, I’d like to welcome you to TRA/TFA!

I saw you on the bootcamp roster, and it looks like you are going to be in my Flight/Squad/Wing/Fleet.

So we are going to be working together.

This is just to say hi, and if you need a friend to help you out, I’d be more than happy to!

Maybe we can play some games together on the zone?

I wish you a speedy cruise through bootcamp, and after that the very best in TRA/TFA in my Flight/Squad/Wing/Fleet.

Best of luck,

Regards,

[Your nickname]

[Your details]

***END TRANSMISSION***

This is just a suggestion; you don’t have to use it.

If you have a template, just email it to me and I can add it in the next version.

By all means make your own…save it in a text file and paste it in. It won’t take more than a few minutes, and it could make all the difference from a half-hearted recruit who may get through bootcamp from a recruit inspired by your email to complete his/her tests in the quickest possible time.

Also, the recruit will already know you upon assignment, and you can get in touch with him/her and perhaps introduce them to other members of your squadron on ICQ or on the Comlink.

Chapter 7: Contact information

Email the Bootcamp Commander if you have any queries/questions/suggestions/comments on this or on a particular recruit.

This concludes the Recruiting guide (version 1.1) by CMa Airdra, updated by CMa Raider

I hope this helps you to recruit more and with a better concept of what the recruit needs to know.

Good luck!