10 Ways to Position Yourself as a Leader in the Dance Industry
Over the past 30 years, I’ve had to opportunity to progress from dancer to teacher; teacher to choreographer; choreographer to adjunct instructor; adjunct instructor to program director.
I’ve received awards and recognition for my work. One of these awards, The Breaking Glass Emerging Female Choreographer’s Project included a year of mentoring. My mentor, Michelle Ramos, helped to set me on the path to move from check-to-check freelancer into strategic leader.
These are the strategies that I’ve used reach my goals as a leader in dance.
Know your stuff. There is no substitute for the pursuit of knowledge of dance. Stay up to date on all of the latest in the industry, know your dance history, and dialogue about it. Always be eager to learn new things.
Share what you know with the world. Not as a know-it-all, but as a guide. Pass on your experience by teaching, writing, or speaking.
Take advantage of opportunities (even if they don’t seem like obviously good ones). Choreograph with different levels of dancers, work outside of this field- challenge yourself to grow your skillset beyond your comfort zone.
Take advantage of opportunities (even if they don’t seem like obviously good ones). Choreograph with different levels of dancers, work outside of this field- challenge yourself to grow your skillset beyond your comfort zone.
Be reliable. Through your actions, let people see that they can count on you. Follow up, be present when booked, and bring your best.
Charge what your work is worth. Notice I said “your work” not “you.” You as a person have intrinsic worth and the work that you produce has a worth. Know what that value is before going into contract negotiations. Don’t be afraid to give your time to good causes and don’t be afraid to decline situations that are a poor use of your time and energy.
Develop a value proposition, artistic philosophy, and or mission statement. Know what you do and why you do it. This can change with experience, but it is never too soon to determine your “why.” Be ready to speak on the value that you bring to the industry.
Invest in yourself. Investment can be time, money, or energy. Be willing to pay for the tools that you need to grow and wise enough to take time off to rest. Take care of your instruments (mind, body, and spirit) as these are means by which you create.
Be ready before opportunity comes. Have your website, resume, statements, photos, rates, etc prepared and available.
Get a website! Social media is important for visibility, but ultimately, you don’t own it. You do, however, control what is on your website. Your website should be the online home for your work. From that platform, you can share ideas, sell classes or workshop, build a community and book employment. Show others how you lead!
Save this list for reference and review it point by point. By using these strategies, you can work towards your goal of being a leader in the dance industry.
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