So you want to be a dance instructor? We don't blame you, it's a fun job that allows for creativity, human connection,emotional exploration, and the at the same time keeps you fit. Those are some pretty sweet benefits that a lot of jobs can't offer. 

Well depending on the style of dance that you desire to teach, the process to getting a job as an instructor
could vary. For example, if you are looking to become a ballroom instructor you could simply walk into a studio like Fred Astaire or Arthur Murray and enroll in their teaching program. You'll go through some rigorous training in a multitude of styles in order to prepare you for your teaching exam which will be arbitrated by a certified adjudicator. Once you've successfully passed, bingo, you're now a certified teacher and eligible to become a full-time instructor. 

Now outside of ballroom, getting a job as an instructor in the studio world of Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Tap, etc, the requirements are different and not so clear cut. The best way to become an instructor is to be a student first. There isn't an instructor out there that wasn't at one point a student. Firstly, it's important to understand what is expected of you as a dance instructor. Check out our article on The Duty Of Being A Dance Instructor for more insight into what you are getting yourself into. Now below we've put together several sure fire methods that can help you achieve your goal of becoming a dance instructor. 

1. Start Early 

Many instructors got their start at the studio where they trained. If you grow up dancing in the studio it's not uncommon to get a summer job or part-time job helping to assist classes or taking over some of the youth classes. If you've been training at a studio for years they already know what you're capable of as well as your strengths and weaknesses. Express your interested to whom it may concern and most likely they will be happy to get you involved in some capacity, starting you off on your path of becoming an educated and gifted instructor. 

2. Take A Job At The Front Desk 

If you don't have a studio that you've been attached to for years or are new to dance and know that you aspire to learn and teach one day, one of the best things to do is get a job or internship at the studio where you wish to train. Pretty much all the top studios in the US have an internship/work program that allows you to take class for free or at a significantly discounted price. You could get a gig working the front desk three days a week for several hours and in exchange get the opportunity to take as many classes as you'd like. The more classes you take the better you get and when you're ready to start teaching you will have a foot in the door at a studio where all the instructors and students already know you. 

3. Start a Youtube Channel

YouTube allows you the opportunity to archive your dancing experience in a public database which can essentially act as your reel. Record yourself dancing in rehearsal, at master classes when you get called out for selects, in performances,etc, and post it online. Use YouTube as a platform to show case your choreography or make online tutorials that show case your style of teaching and possibly build you a following. There are thousands upon thousands of dancers that post videos of their work on YouTube and you should join them. YouTube is a fantastic free marketing tool that could play a pivotal role in your career and possibly open doors to unforeseen opportunities.

4. The Power Of Conventions

One of the best was to get into the professional dance industry is by attending one or more of the many dance conventions that tour around the US and the world. Attending a convention gives you the opportunity to get right in front of the best dancers and choreographers in the industry. If they notice you repeatedly they will begin to call you out and that can lead to working for the convention, especially for youth. Almost every convention selects ambassadors that get to travel and assist the instructors headlining these conventions. If you can snag one of these assistant roles you will be setup for a very promising future as a dancer and instructor. 

5. Start Small

If your dream is to teach at a mega studio like Millennium in Los Angeles or teach at conventions like Monsters or Pulse you have to be patient and put in the work. Don't be afraid to start small at a local studio and work your way up. Allow yourself the opportunity to really hone your craft and build a solid foundation as a teacher. Know that only the most dedicated, talented, and determined dancers become top instructors and choreographers like the ones that travel the world and tour with these conventions. 

Remember that your ability as a dancer is the most essential part of your resume so never stop learning and improving. Every potential employer wants to know what you've done, who you've done it for, and then they want to see you in action. But you don't have to be the best dancer in the world in order to be the best teacher. Be grateful for whatever opportunity presents itself and use that opportunity to grow. Rest assure that doors will open if you put yourself out there, stay humble, and remain focused on your end goal.

FloDance's best content, delivered to your inbox

Don't miss breaking news, feature stories, event updates, and more. Sign up for the FloDance mailing list today.