Yoga Teachers: Preparing for Your First Teaching Auditions
You just finished your first 200hour teacher training and the world is bright. Your practice is stronger than ever, you have new ideas and you’re ready to get out into the world to teach. But what exactly should you be prepared for when you’re walking into your first (of probably many) demo auditions? The answer: ANYTHING.
As with any job interview it is best to be as prepared as possible. As most of you learned in your “Business of Yoga” training module during your YTT, but let’s highlight the key things in place before you hit your first studios for an audition.
The Business of Yoga
Resume: This can be your traditional paper resume or a website (which is essentially a digital resume). Personally, I like both. My theory is, the more information that you can provide eligible studios upfront about yourself, the better. TIP: Make sure to include where you did your training, with whom, a little bio and some information on the style of yoga you like to teach.
Yoga Alliance Registration: Make sure that you’ve gone online and started to apply for your YA certification. Most studios look at this as THE certifying body and you will not be considered a viable applicant without the RYT acronym behind your name.
Insurance: Once registered with Yoga Alliance, it’s very important to get yourself insured. YA offers some great deals for their teachers and many if not ALL studios will ask that you provide proof of insurance. It’s a relatively low-cost safety net that’s worth it’s weight in gold.
State Law Guidelines: Some states require you to have a business license. It’s good to look into whether or not your state requires this of you in case a studio asks you for all your credentials.
Know Before You Go: Generally speaking, studios don’t hire people off of the street, they look to students who have been at their studio practicing and are a part of the community. If at all possible, practice as much as you can at the studio you are hoping to work for. Find out who owns/manages it and how they like to be contacted.
Solid Practice: As a new teacher, you’re still working on finding your voice and that can take some time, but be as clear as possible when it comes to presenting yourself and your brand. The more you’re practicing, the better (and that goes for personal yoga practice AND teaching practice). Get after it.
Finishing a training is just the first step (I know right?!?!). If you’re wanting to get out and make yoga your career or carry it as a side job, these tools will help you get started. In my next blog, I’ll be talking about the different types of demos you can expect! Keep your eyes out!