Marketing for a successful career

In today’s day and age when marketing a product holds more importance then the product itself, how can the field of dance be left far behind. But dance is one such medium that is not fully affected by it, marketing is important but the final assessment is indeed the quality if dance that the dancer exhibits. Extra marketing can get to the dance floor for the test but cannot make you pass it with flying colours. Many a time, dancers approach me through emails and phone calls asking me to be a part the films or stage shows I am choreographing, but most of them lack in their marketing and self presentation skills. In today’s piece I am going to give all you dancers the right way to market and present yourself to a choreographer or an event agent. Knowing how to present yourself to the people who will be giving you an opportunity is perhaps the most important aspect of your dance career. Once you have settled in with your training, which, by the way, never stops, and before you contact a choreographer or an agent, start to look at what to do to make yourself marketable in this industry. Biggest mistake a dancer makes is to contact choreographers or agents who are working only in their dance styles, but the best is to contact all people who give opportunities to a dancer. The “look” of a dancer is very important in India, here ‘look’ also means the way a dancer conducts and grooms himself. Take notice of dancers who work a lot and how they have developed a look that sells. Experiment with different ways of presenting yourself. This may mean going for a different hairstyle for example. Be an individual and find something to be comfortable in, trying to be someone you are not as an individual can backfire during meetings and auditions.

Things you must have:

A good photo in colour: For a dancer, just a good profile picture can actually make things click. Resume: Make sure you highlight your experience as a dancer. Always carry some basic dance auditions clothes. Also keep some character accessories like hand fans, masks, etc. Ensure you have dance shoes and kneepads with you. And a positive attitude with lots of energy After you have your package together, you can get started with networking and auditioning. One of the “must do” on your list is to get an agent, dance agent that is. First, get a list of all the dance agents in town. You can get a list by looking around for them on google or moving to some dance parties. Also different Indian dance websites have dancers’ groups and have very good and informative web pages about many things you should know. There is more of a grapevine in India, so simply ask other dancers at the Start by calling their office to find out about their auditions. Contact as many as you can because every agency handles their client search differently. Very often they will come and watch a certain class. If so, be sure to find out when that teacher has classes. Then you should check it out so that you are familiar with their style. Always have a picture with your resume attached to the back. This is your calling card remember to never ever go anywhere without it. After you have nailed the audition, they will want you to have an interview with them. Remember to be outgoing, but not overbearing. Present yourself as a confident and pleasant person. Be clear about your ideas on your career and know your dance style well. If you are asked any technical or personal question, be honest because an honest dancer is a true dancer. Be smart; follow their advice completely and professionally with utmost sincerity. Do not forget that you have worked hard to get here and this is where your job opportunities are.