The above quote was from the character Oddball in the 1970 movie "Kelly's Heroes" as portrayed by Donald Sutherland. I thought it appropriate quote for the topic today regarding recruiting new re-enactors.
Often I see potential new re-enactors post on various discussion forums or Facebook about getting involved in the hobby. They are wide eyed and full of enthusiasm. They want to get involved and they want to do it now!
Then some re-enactor "veteran" steps in and tries to beat them into submission with their knowledge of everything about WWII. They astound them with opinions, talk about how hard it was when they started 20 years ago (by walking to the military surplus store, uphill, in the snow, both ways) or they marvel in their own glory as they tell the new kid everything wrong with their approach to the hobby. The end result being another lost potential member as the new guy slowly walks away.
Why would anyone want to join a hobby where their first step in the door is to be clubbed into submission by guys with ego's so big they would dwarf a King Tiger?!?!
This pattern has to change if our hobby is going to grow. We have to have new members, fresh ideas, and young blood. Perhaps a better approach to the new guy is to provide some positive feedback first and then have a frank discussion about how to approach acquiring the best in uniforms and equipment.
Lets begin by being just as excited as they are that they found one of the best hobbies for history enthusiasts. Then lets offer support in their endeavor. Provide guidance. Answer questions (without being condescending). Give them tips on where to find gear at a reasonable price.
Its a privilege to have them join us, not a privilege for us to allow them in.
Often I see potential new re-enactors post on various discussion forums or Facebook about getting involved in the hobby. They are wide eyed and full of enthusiasm. They want to get involved and they want to do it now!
Then some re-enactor "veteran" steps in and tries to beat them into submission with their knowledge of everything about WWII. They astound them with opinions, talk about how hard it was when they started 20 years ago (by walking to the military surplus store, uphill, in the snow, both ways) or they marvel in their own glory as they tell the new kid everything wrong with their approach to the hobby. The end result being another lost potential member as the new guy slowly walks away.
Why would anyone want to join a hobby where their first step in the door is to be clubbed into submission by guys with ego's so big they would dwarf a King Tiger?!?!
This pattern has to change if our hobby is going to grow. We have to have new members, fresh ideas, and young blood. Perhaps a better approach to the new guy is to provide some positive feedback first and then have a frank discussion about how to approach acquiring the best in uniforms and equipment.
Lets begin by being just as excited as they are that they found one of the best hobbies for history enthusiasts. Then lets offer support in their endeavor. Provide guidance. Answer questions (without being condescending). Give them tips on where to find gear at a reasonable price.
Its a privilege to have them join us, not a privilege for us to allow them in.