So you are a coach. Number one let’s get on the same page. Do you know why you coach? Is it to mentor? To choreograph? Organize? We all have different reasons for signing up in whichever capacity. But let’s make sure we settle on one thing, the program you now direct has an immense amount of power to influence young women.

When we do our part to impart wisdom, kindness, and work ethic into this generation they will go forth to carry the same message.

At the end of the day this will even go as far to contribute to your audition turn out in the future.

Dancers have a shelf life. So say it to yourself right now… “While I have the opportunity to influence dancers, I will make a positive impact and do my best to provide resources and life lessons they will carry with them forever.” Ok ok, you don’t have to say it just like that. But hey - it’s IMPORTANT!

So let’s talk about captains, leaders, etc.

TASK MANAGEMENT

All leaders have different skill sets. As an effective leader you will do your best to get to know those strengths and use them creatively. Options for tasks in leaders:

• Social Media

• Choreography

• Bonding

• Volunteering

• Game Day Outfits

• Communication

• Juniors Clinics

• It’s really endless.

The great thing about tasks is it spreads the love. It enables your kitchen with too many cooks to focus on their station.

PERSONALITY TESTS

Ever considered personality tests? This can be very effective for adjusting your coaching style or informing your team of your personality type. Practice should be a productive, drama-free place. And with an understanding of why everyone is on your team and how they prefer to contribute, you can help manage or limit miscommunication or misunderstandings.

Here is a link to a super helpful breakdown. And a fun, free test.

POWER

THIS CHANGED MY LIFE.

I learned about this at a coaching conference, but it’s been around since 1960. It’s the Classifications of Power. Basically it’s a more structured way of communicating “how to make friends and influence people.”

Explaining this to your captains will change everything for you. No more rolling eyes, gossip, resentment, etc. Your team is lead by women who can handle it, and people have no problem taking direction.

Just remember culture starts from the top and trickles down, so you have to live and breathe this as well.

LEGACY

Probably one of the most important parts of a successful team with consistent interest, interesting performances, active engagement in the community, a thriving junior program, and most importantly a happy team - is the legacy you choose to create.

1. Sit down with your team and talk about how you want to break stereotypes, how do you want to be perceived. How will you achieve this?

2. What are the 5 timeless qualities all of your teammates should possess? Commitment? Accountability?

3. What are you doing to stand out in the dance community? Creative choreography? Promotion of your unique team members? Community Ambassadorship?

Whatever your plan of attack, this is your marketing strategy and you must take the time to develop it with significant team buy in.

As always, I hope that this was immensely helpful for you. Choreography Wire strives to provide educational, impactful content for our coaches! If you loved it, do us a favor, and share!

Let's empower dancers, each other, and do our best - together.

CHEERS!