Continuing Brother Development

It is essential we continue to fulfill our mission to “foster the personal growth of each man’s mind, heart, and character,” even when we are at a distance. The General Fraternity has created a list of ideas to assist our chapters and colonies in continuing member development.

Tools for Virtual Meetings

• For one-one-one calls, members can take advantage of apps such as FaceTime (iOS), Google Duo, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp.
• For group meetings, Google offers its users access to Hangouts that can support up to 10 users at a time. For larger groups, Zoom also offers free video conferencing for up to 100 people for 40 minutes. Chapters could also purchase a Zoom Premium Account subscription for as little as $15/month which would provide access to more participants and unlimited call time. The General Fraternity has a limited number of Premium Account licenses available for free. Visit www.sigmanu.org/zoom to submit a request for one of these licenses. The Zoom “Breakout Rooms” function can be an effective tool to facilitate small group discussions as part of your meeting.

Ideas for Brother Development

• Continue Utilization of LEAD – While the LEAD Program is designed for in-person activity, much of the curriculum can be adapted for virtual use. Use the group meeting software above (e.g. Zoom) to keep up with LEAD Phase I and candidate education. Also, Phases like LEAD Phase III, offer “leadership labs” which empower members to work independently and then process their experiences in cohort meetings. Consult the LEAD Online Resource Library for overviews and deep dives on the content for Phase I-IV sessions. Participant review followed by a group discussion of the content is another option for modified online facilitation (see session facilitator notes for suggested discussion questions and activities that could be adapted for virtual use – in place of using the standard script for an in-person session).
• Learn More About Your Leadership Type – Leadership typology tests like, Myers-Briggs, CliftonStrengths, the Leadership Practices Inventory, and True Colors are an easy way for your members to learn more about themselves and what they contribute to the chapter.
• Host a Book Club – Invite members of the chapter to read together. The chapter could schedule times for reflection and discussion as members work their way through the book. For suggested reads, check out The Art of Manliness blog’s “100 Books Every Man Should Read.”
• Share a YouTube Video or TedTalk of the Day – Make each day impactful by sharing a thought-provoking video to get your members thinking. We recommend setting up a time for a group discussion for a deeper dive into these videos and their application. Need suggestions? The Fraternity has curated a large selection of videos under its Sigma Nu Talks series that covers various topics related to Leadership, Values, and Social Issues.
• Take Advantage of the Sigma Nu Mentor Network – Through the Fraternity’s partnership with FIRSTHAND, members have a platform to connect with alumni and advisors who can provide personalized advice, career conversations, resume critiques, and mock interviews.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your chapter’s brother development efforts, please do not hesitate to contact your chapter’s Leadership Consultant.