🌟 Why Bother Leading a Society?

 

Leading a society is seriously underrated. You will;

• Level up your confidence, communication & event planning skills
• Build an awesome network (hello, future job references 👀)
• Make a real difference on campus
• Have fun and make your society your thing

Plus, it looks amazing on your CV – employers love this kind of leadership experience.

 

🏫 Society Inductions – Yes, They Matter

 

Before things kick off, you’ll need to go to a Society Induction. It’s a short session run by the SU, and it covers:

• How societies work
• What support is available
• How to not accidentally break any rules

Basically, it’s the cheat sheet to running your society like a pro. Everyone on committee should go – it’s a lifesaver.

 

🌐 Set Up Your Society Web Page

 

Your society’s SU webpage is your digital home base. It’s where people can:

• Find out what you do
• Join the society membership
• See your regular meetings or special events

Keep it updated! Add a fun intro, your socials, and event details. A dead webpage = missed opportunities.

 

⏱️ Track Your Hours with VolunTees

 

All the time you spend running your society? That’s volunteering. And you can log it on VolunTees.

Why bother?

• You get a record of your hours (great for job apps)
• You could earn awards or recognition
• It shows you’ve been putting in the effort

Just pop over to the VolunTees site and log your tasks (events, planning, emails – it all counts!).

 

📣 Using the Campaigner – Your Email Megaphone

 

The Campaigner is the SU’s email tool – basically a way to contact all your members at once.

Use it to:

• Promote events
• Share updates
• Send reminders
• Announce elections or society news

It’s easier than group chats and makes your society look legit. Pro tip: keep emails short, friendly, and clear!

 

📅 Booking a Room – Easy When You Know How

 

Need a space for a meeting, rehearsal, or event? You can book rooms in the SU or university (details at your induction).

Top tips:

• Book early – rooms get snapped up fast
• Know how many people you're expecting
• If you need tech (projector, mics, etc), ask for it in advance
• Still not sure? The Activities Team will help you figure it out.

 

💸 Society Expenses – Spend Responsibly and get back what you spend

 

Societies get access to funding – but it’s got to be used properly.

Here’s the deal:

• Keep track of everything you spend
• Always get receipts
• If you're unsure whether something is covered, ask first
• Use society funds for society stuff (not your takeaway pizza)

The chair should stay on top of this, but the whole committee should know how it works.

 

📜 Code of Conduct – Don’t Be THAT Society

 

All societies have to follow the Code of Conduct. It’s there to make sure everyone feels safe, welcome, and respected.

Quick version:

• Treat people with respect
• Be inclusive and fair
• Don’t do anything that’ll get you (or the SU) in trouble

Committee members have an extra responsibility to set the tone. If someone’s acting out, you’ll need to deal with it (but don’t worry, you’ll have support).

 

🌍 Inclusivity & Diversity – It’s Not Optional

 

Everyone should feel like they belong in your society.

Here’s how to make that happen:

• Use inclusive language in your posts & events
• Make sure your events are accessible (physically + financially)
• Be open to feedback – and actually listen
• Mix things up! Cater to different interests, backgrounds & comfort levels

Inclusivity = more members, more fun, more success. Win-win-win.

 

🚀 Final Words

 

Leading a society is one of the best things you can do at uni – and yeah, it can be a lot, but you’re not alone. Use this guide, ask for help when you need it, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride. You’re doing something awesome. Own it. 🙌

Got questions? The SU Activities Team is your secret weapon. Use them.