Setting Your Dance Profile Up for Success: Showcasing the Whole You
This blog explains how to build a standout dance profile that balances technical skills with personality, emphasizing that coaches seek well-rounded individuals rather than just talented performers. It offers practical advice for showcasing character, achievements, and interpersonal abilities across various profile sections to make a compelling impression.
When it comes to building a standout dance profile, talent alone won’t set you apart. Coaches aren’t just looking for strong turns and high kicks—they want to see the full picture of who you are as a person. Your ability to engage with others, represent a program well, and contribute to a team dynamic is just as important as your technical skills.
So, how can you ensure your profile reflects both your dance ability and your personality? Let’s break it down.
The About Me Section: A Chance to Showcase Personality
This section is more than just a bio—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting first impression. Here, you want to highlight not only your dance background but also what makes you unique. Coaches want to see that you’re more than just a performer; they want to know who you are outside of the studio.
Tips for a Strong About Me Section:
Show Your Personality: Are you energetic and outgoing? Thoughtful and determined? Let that come through in your writing.
Highlight Interests Outside of Dance: Do you love volunteering, reading, traveling, or playing another sport? Including these details shows you’re well-rounded.
Keep It Professional but Approachable: Your tone should be authentic yet polished—think of how you’d introduce yourself in an interview.
Awards & Achievements: More Than Just Medals
Your awards section is where you highlight your dedication and hard work, but it’s important to go beyond just listing competition wins. Coaches value leadership, academic success, and community involvement just as much as dance accolades.
What to Include:
Dance Awards: Any significant placements, titles, or recognitions.
Academic Achievements: Honor roll, scholarships, or leadership positions in school organizations.
Leadership Titles: Captain, Co-captain, dance teacher, team choreographer
Community Involvement: Volunteering, mentorship roles, or extracurriculars that demonstrate responsibility and character.
This well-rounded approach shows that you bring value to a team beyond your performance skills.
References: The Power of Positive Endorsements
References allow coaches to hear directly from people who know your work ethic, character, and attitude. A strong reference can reinforce the qualities you present in your profile and give coaches additional confidence in your abilities.
Who to Ask for References:
Dance Coaches & Teachers: They can speak to your growth, technique, and leadership in the studio.
Academic Teachers or Mentors: These references showcase your responsibility and work ethic outside of dance.
Co-workers or Bosses:They can attest to your reliability, teamwork abilities, and professional conduct in workplace settings.
Community Leaders: If you’ve been involved in volunteering, a coach may value hearing about your impact beyond the studio.
Relating to Others: Why It Matters Beyond Dance
When you’re part of a college dance team, you’ll be engaging with fans, donors, alumni, and people in the community who may know little to nothing about dance. Your ability to communicate, connect, and represent your team well in all settings is crucial.
How to Showcase This in Your Profile:
Mention Public Speaking or Leadership Experience: Have you given a speech, led a fundraiser, or been a team captain? These show you’re comfortable talking with different audiences.
Emphasize Teamwork and Collaboration: Coaches want dancers who bring positive energy to a team and can work well with others.
Showcase Your Interests Beyond Dance: This gives people something else to connect with you about and demonstrates your ability to relate to a variety of individuals.
Your profile is more than just a collection of stats and videos—it’s a representation of who you are. A well-crafted profile highlights your dance strengths while also proving you’re a well-rounded, personable, and engaged individual. By taking the time to thoughtfully fill out your About Me section, awards, and references, you’re giving coaches a complete picture of why you’d be a great fit for their program.
At the end of the day, skills can be taught, but attitude, personality, and the ability to connect with others make a lasting impact. Make sure your profile reflects that!