RSO Tips and Tricks

1. Meeting Frequency & Structure 

  • Recommended: 2-4 times per month + 1 social event for camaraderie. 
  • Meetings Should Have Structure: Establish an agenda to guide discussions. 

Example Agenda: 

  1. Call to Order & Roll Call 
  2. Approval of Agenda & Previous Minutes 
  3. Officer & Advisor Reports (President, VP, Treasurer, Secretary, Advisor) 
  4. Committee Reports 
  5. Old Business (previously tabled items) 
  6. New Business (new discussion items) 
  7. Announcements 
  8. Program (guest speakers, educational topics) 
  9. Adjournment 

2. Informational Meetings (2x Annually) 

Purpose: 

  • Recruit new members and promote your RSO. 
  • Develop marketing materials and elevator pitches. 
  • Learn to submit events and meet deadlines. 

Tips: 

  • Use free marketing resources. 
  • Follow event reservation guidelines. 
  • Utilize series reservations for recurring meetings. 

3. Event Planning & Registration (EPR) + Reservations 

  • Series Reservation Shortcut: 
    • Go to Manage Organization → Create Event → Add multiple dates. 
  • Nebraska Unions Event Reservations: 
    • Specify location preference and room in the description. 
    • Review confirmation emails and digital signs for updates. 
    • The Nebraska Unions may reassign rooms based on space availability. 
  • EPR Comments Are Crucial! 
    • Check your email for updates or questions. 
    • Respond promptly to avoid event denials. 
    • Attach confirmations when requesting General Purpose Classrooms. 
  • BIG Events (Multiple Rooms): 

4. Maintaining a Balanced RSO 

  • Your RSO Shouldn’t Feel Like a Full-Time Job! 
    • Schedule fun activities, not just meetings. 
    • Plan time off to avoid burnout. 

5. Conflict Management 

Effective Conflict Resolution Strategies: 

  • Listen Actively: Understand the real issue, avoid gossip. 
  • Stay Focused: Remove biases and focus on solutions. 
  • Create Open Discussion Rules: 
    • No personal attacks or gossip. 
    • Time limits keep discussions productive. 
  • Acknowledge Emotions: Don't dismiss feelings or attack individuals. 
  • Shut Down Passive-Aggressive Behavior: Encourage direct communication. 
  • Support Marginalized Voices: Ensure everyone feels heard. 
  • Apologize if Necessary: Own your mistakes and rebuild trust. 
  • Develop an Action Plan & Stick to It. 

Remember: Conflict is normal! It doesn’t define your RSO. Focus on shared goals and seek support from an Advisor or Student Leadership, Involvement & Community Engagement if needed. 

6. Most Importantly—Have Fun! 

Keep your RSO engaging and enjoyable for all members. 🎉 

Recognized Student Organization Manual