5 Ways Social Media can Help a Dancer’s Career
Although the dance industry has grown over the past 15–20 years, the dance world is very small. I say this because dancers travel all over the US, and even internationally, to take classes from and watch performances by professional, world class dancers and choreographers. A lot of the time, dancers will display these experiences on social media because it not only brings joy to the internet, but can actually benefit a dancer’s career if displayed properly and professionally…which brings us to the 5 reasons why social media can help a dancer’s career:
- Exposure and Networking
Everyone knows everyone in the dance world. It may be a growing industry, but all dancers are connected through popular professional dancers, choreographers, and dance companies. Dancers most commonly network through regional and national competitions, conventions, intensives, and master classes. It is always a great idea to get to know the people you are dancing with, whether you are part of the same studio/company or not. You never know who could open a door for you in future. By sharing footage from these types of events, and tagging the people that may be dancing with you on social media, and even using hashtags, can expose your dancing abilities, experiences, and broaden your circle of people within that industry. This link is a networking site specifically for dancers: http://www.networkdance.com/
2. Inspiration and Ideas
Social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube offers endless numbers of dance videos that are viewed and shared every day. This is a great way for dancers and choreographers to gain inspiration for future pieces and performances. It also gives a great idea of the latest trends in dance. One of my favorite ways to get inspired is by watching videos posted from Millennium Dance Complex. Here is the link to their main site that shows all of the celebrities that their instructors have danced and/or choreographed for, and includes photos and videos of the dancers that attend their diverse classes: http://millenniumdancecomplex.com/
3. Auditions and New Opportunities
New opportunities are always around the corner for dancers whether it be auditions for commercials, or auditions for a local dance company. It is important for dancers to be aware of the many audition opportunities available to them. One great way of doing this is by utilizing those networks and social media. Many companies will post on their Facebook pages and promote them on their Instagram accounts. Seeking these audition dates, times, and locations through social media and specific company websites opens many doors for the careers of dancers and choreographers. Here is a link to another listicle from a professional dancer that provides 10 important tips for successful auditions: https://www.musical-creations.com/tips/auditioning/10-tips-successful-dance-auditions/
4. Documentation for Portfolio
It is important for dancers that are looking for careers in commercial, or concert dance to document their choreography and performances for audition purposes. This is a key part to include in a dancer’s portfolio as well. Social media is a great way for dancers to do give previews of their work and provide links to the full videos so that companies and choreographers can get an idea of your abilities and experiences. Here is a link to another listicle that provides specifics about what is essential to include in your professional dance portfolio: https://www.morethandancers.com/want-to-dance-professionally-4-tips-for-your-dance-portfolio/
5. Constructive Criticism
One thing that dancers have always had to deal with is criticism. Not only constructive criticism at that. It’s never a good idea to let negative criticism tear a dancer down, but instead look at the constructive feedback and apply it as best as possible. Because dancers do, and should, post their performances and choreography on social media, they will also receive a lot of feedback through comments and personal messages. Whether it be good or bad, dancers can always benefit by focusing on the good feedback and constructive criticism to gain new perspectives, improve their works of art, and to always find ways to be unique and be step above the competition. This link is a great example about how dancers receive constructive criticism and how to positively interpret it, especially over social media: https://www.dancestudiolife.com/words-to-learn-by/
