It can take years of training before you’re ready to teach others. Many professional dancers start dancing as young children, although some don’t take their first lesson until much later. Try out a few different dance styles to see what you like. Some of the most popular genres of dance include: ballet, tap, ballroom, jazz, hip-hop, liturgical, and modern dance. [3] X Research source Go on auditions if you want to dance with a production, like as a back-up dancer for a musician or a stage show. This will also help you network, which could help you later in your career.

Some teaching positions will require you to complete more education.

Some studios will have more stringent requirements than others. In some cases, the studio may only want you to demonstrate your dance experience, especially if you’re applying for a part-time or assistant position, or if it’s a non-competitive local dance studio. In the UK, you will most likely need a specialized qualification from the Council for Dance Education and Training. [6] X Research source In the US, programs vary. Some popular dance teacher certification groups are the Royal Academy of Dance, the American Ballet Theatre, the National Dance Teachers Association of America, and the American Tap Dance Foundation. [7] X Research source

Popular dance fitness programs include Zumba, Barre, and Jazzercise. [9] X Research source

It will likely be easier to find a school offering programs specific to classic styles of dance, like ballet, than more modern styles like hip hop. However, a general dance or performing arts degree will typically be sufficient if there isn’t a program for your dance style. [11] X Research source

These certifications are typically based on the grade level you want to teach, whether that’s elementary or primary school students, middle or junior high, and high school. You may not need a teaching license to work at a private dance school. [13] X Research source Depending on where you go to school, you may be able to become certified through your college program. Check with your school’s career counseling department for more information.

These programs will cover dance techniques, choreography, kinesiology, dance history, and more. [15] X Research source Your master’s degree can be in performing arts, fine arts, dance education, or a specific genre like ballet. You will likely work as a student teacher during the program, which will provide you with valuable educational experience. Typically, a PhD is centered on dance education.

Remember to put your contact information at the top of the page so the employer can contact you if you’re chosen for the position! Keep your resume short—it should only take up one side of one sheet of paper. If you have more experience than you can fit on one sheet, focus on the experience that’s most recent and most relevant to the position you want.

You also might choreograph routines, lead beginner-level classes, and help with administrative duties. If you don’t want to teach at a studio, try to find a choreographer or dance teacher in your area who is looking for a personal assistant. For instance, if you want to teach liturgical dance, you might reach out to local churches to see if there are any worship leaders who could use help.

Focus on studios and organizations that teach your preferred style of dance, if possible. For instance, if you dance hip-hop, you would apply at studios that teach modern dance, while if you are a ballet dancer, you might choose studios that focus on classic dance styles. Some studios will cover multiple dance styles, so do a little research to find out what they’re most proficient in. Depending on the size of the dance community where you live, you might need to consider relocating for opportunities.

You can even do seasonal work. For instance, you might work a few weeks out of the year teaching at summer camps, festivals, or workshops. This can be great if you prefer a less popular style of dance, like interpretive dance or a cultural dance that doesn’t have the audience for year-round classes.

You can advertise online or by word-of-mouth to find students who want to take lessons. You may also find private lesson opportunities through a dance studio. [19] X Expert Source Val CunninghamCertified Dance & Yoga Instructor Expert Interview. 6 February 2020.

YouTube and Instagram are both good platforms for building an online following. Follow other dancers and dance teachers in your dance genre to help you grow your following. You can even follow musicians. For instance, if you’re a hip-hop dancer, you might follow hip-hop artists, rappers, and producers to get an idea for what’s going on in the industry.

If you open your own studio, chances are it will be your turn to give up-and-coming dance teachers a shot!

For instance, you might work with children starting from the age of 3 until they’re about 10-12, you might choose to teach teens from ages to 13-18, or you might prefer holding classes for adults ages 19 and up.

Dance is very competitive, so you’ll have to push your students if they want to be successful. [21] X Expert Source Val CunninghamCertified Dance & Yoga Instructor Expert Interview. 6 February 2020. Having good form is an important part of avoiding injuries, so it’s crucial that you be able to critique your students.

Many choreographers prefer to listen to a piece of music over and over, then create a dance routine that goes along with the rhythm, harmonies, and emotion of the song. Consider incorporating elements from different genres into your dance. For instance, a few jazz moves can liven up a ballroom routine, while a ballet spin can add grace to a hip-hop routine.

Of course, as a teacher you have to be able to separate yourself from your students’ problems, too. Be there as a listening ear, and offer thoughtful advice, but keep in mind that you can’t always solve the issue.

Keep in mind that the parents of your students are usually well-intentioned, and try to keep a pleasant yet authoritative tone when you’re speaking with them. [23] X Research source