Which activity best demonstrates a proactive approach to DECA chapter recruitment?

• A. Host open houses.
• B. Post a single flyer.
• C. Develop targeted outreach and leverage networks.
• D. Rely solely on word of mouth.

Answer: (C)

Proactive recruitment means actively seeking and engaging potential members rather than waiting for them to find you. Developing targeted outreach involves identifying groups most likely to join and crafting messages, events, and channels specifically for them. Leveraging networks means tapping into existing relationships—teachers, counselors, alumni, community partners, and other student groups—to spread the word and invite participation. This combination creates a planned, scalable approach that reaches the right people where they are, builds credibility through trusted connections, and creates a steady flow of interested students.

Open houses can help, but they’re event-based and rely on attracting attendees rather than actively reaching out. A single flyer is a passive tactic with limited reach, and relying on word of mouth is informal and slow. The targeted outreach with network leverage is the most deliberate and effective way to recruit proactively.