Most guys walking into rush week think it's all about being cool and having the right outfit. They're wrong. Here are the 5 things that quietly get rushees cut — and most of them have nothing to do with your personality.

1. Talking about other houses. The second you mention another fraternity's name in a house, you're flagged. Even if it's positive. It signals you're not locked in.

2. Only talking to one brother. If you spent the entire party talking to the same guy, the rest of the room didn't get to know you. When they vote, you're a question mark — and question marks get cut.

3. Asking "what makes your house different?" It sounds like an interview question. Brothers can tell you Googled "what to say during rush." Talk like a normal person.

4. Not following up. After a round, the guys who send a quick text or show up to an optional event are the ones who stay on the board. Silence = disinterest.

5. Trying too hard to be funny. Humor works when it's natural. When you're forcing jokes with strangers, it reads as nervous energy. Just be genuine and ask real questions.

If you want the full playbook — how to prep before rush, what to say in every round, and how to handle bid day — that's exactly what we built inside Alabama Fraternity Consulting.