10 Signs It’s Time to Leave Your Dance Teaching Position
Everyday I see dance teachers crowdsource answers to the following questions:
“How do you know when it is time to leave your dance studio?”
“The studio owner has decided to re-choreograph all of my pieces. Is this unusual?”
”All of the staff grew up here and they seem to have a clique. I’m left out and increasingly ignored. What should I do?”
“I’m paid $20/hr. Is that a good rate?”
“We’re expected to pay out of pocket and stay all day at conventions and competitions. Is this normal?”
“Should I leave my dance studio?”
We might know what it takes to get a job, but we struggle to come to terms with leaving.
So, if you suspect the odds are no longer in your favor, read on to learn whether or not it’s time to pack your dance bag.
You don’t respect the studio owner or their guidelines. This is one of only two situations on the list where the responsibility lies solely with you. If you are unable to accept direction, correction, or advice from the person(s) in authority and/or you are undermining their business, you should go. Don’t wait for them to dismiss you. You are toxic to their studio. You do not have to agree with everything a director says or does. But if you find yourself disagreeing more than agreeing, your behavior will start to reflect that disdain in the classroom. It is best that you resign. Don’t solicit students on your way out!
Your classes or choreography opportunities are being reduced. If you’re moved from 10 classes to 5 classes without explanation, your spidey-senses should be tingling! This one might not be a first sign, because sometimes opportunities are shared and rotated. But when coupled with others, it’s an indication your skills are no longer desired.
There is a lack of communication between your SO/director and yourself and you’re unable to change that. For example, you try to set up a meeting and the time constantly changes. You don’t receive a response to calls or emails. If you can’t get in touch with them, your concerns are not their priority.
You’re not making a respectable hourly wage. There is a wide range of hourly rates across the United States. Let’s keep it simple. If you’re only able to cover your teaching expenses and gas, you’re not making enough. If you could earn more per hour in retail work, you’re not being paid enough.
You’re being paid as a 1099 contractor when you’re an employee. Here’s an article that compares the two options. Why is this on the list? It’s there because if they don’t know better, there’s a chance that they don’t know how to legally run the studio.
You’re asked to do outside work, theatre time, or events on a voluntary basis. I don’t care if you work for a nonprofit or for profit, you are not a volunteer. You have to be paid. It should not cost you to do your job.
You’ve reached your ceiling in pay or opportunities. When I was 31, I was told that I had reached the maximum hourly wage for one studio. I didn’t decide right then and there that I was leaving, but I knew that this situation would be a problem for me.
You’re unhappy or stressed and snapping out at family/friends when you get home. Not sure? Ask your people! They’ll tell you. A lack of pay or a bad environment can impact your mood. When you get home from 4-5 hours of class and rehearsal and you’re complaining about your job or you can’t stop teaching or directing your family, you’re in a position where you can no longer separate work and home. Evaluate why this is happening and what, if anything, you can do to change your circumstances.
You’re teaching a technique that you’re not comfortable with or don’t have enough training to do well. It’s one thing to substitute, it’s another to do this long term. You’re not doing yourself or your students any favors trying to teach a technique that you’re untrained to teach.
You find an opportunity that is a better fit for you. Time to go! 🏃♀️ Model the behavior that you’d want for your students. You encourage them to find what is best; do the same for yourself.
Leaving your teaching position doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Whenever possible, finish the season. However, I encourage you to finish it with a new mindset. Have a little pep in your step knowing that your days are coming to an end and do your best to enjoy the time that is left. Make plans for your future without fanfare. And don’t announce them until necessary. Pour into your students and continue to make the studio a better place to dance until you depart.
Do you feel like you’re no longer a good fit for your studio? Do you desire new opportunities? It is time to look at your personal brand position. I can help you reach your goals through my course, Dance Brand YOU. Check it out!