Open Hailing Frequencies!

[Chuckling]

I wonder how Starfleet personnel were recruited? We know wannabee cadets put in sponsored applications (Chuckles in Voyager:Tattoo for instance) but what about those special talents outside the normally desired demographics?

We saw Picard and Janeway inviting the latest guest alien to join their crew but how did that actually happen? Were they just drafted or go through some initiation ritual? (Neelix had to bathe, does that count?)

And what about those special talents Starfleet wanted to attract. Did Captain Kirk drop them an e-mail and say, "Hi! Have I got a proposal for you!" Or maybe Q pays them a surprise visit with the missus and friends saying "Just passing! Thought I'd drop by!"

I'm of the opinion direct contact is best rather than subtle suggestions about how good Starfleet is. Kirk or Q sending a PM and asking to meet would get my attention. I'm always willing to listen to a proposal although I might be wary if the correspondant was a Ferengi!

What would it take for Starfleet to recruit you and how would you want them to do it?

Chuckling

 

[sbk1234]

Beaming down into my living room would get my attention. So would using Helen Noel as the recruiting officer.


But seriously, if we're talking in-universe explaination, I'd say there would be some kind of personal contact. If the applicant is interested, there would have to be some kind of background check and indocrination. I would be pretty assinine to just give someone a uniform and say "welcome aboard."