Transparency is Essential During the Recruitment Process

Recruitment season is coming to a close while audition season is in full swing! I know many dancers are feeling the pressure and facing some tricky situations as they navigate this exciting process. I've been hearing a lot of questions from dancers who are at this pivotal moment in their careers, and one thing that keeps coming up is the importance of being transparent. Knowing how to keep the lines of communication open with coaches while exploring your options can really make a difference. I want to share some insights and advice to help others who are in the same boat as they navigate this process.

Q: Why does transparency matter in the recruitment process?
A: Transparency is key because coaches understand that dancers are exploring multiple programs, that’s why recruitment exists in the first place! Just like in football or basketball, coaches work hard to showcase why their team would be the right fit while also trying to fill their roster with the best possible talent. Being upfront about your interest, while keeping communication open, helps maintain professionalism and build strong relationships in the dance community.

Q: Is it okay to stop responding to a coach if I’m no longer interested in their program?
A: Absolutely not! One of the biggest mistakes dancers can make is ghosting a coach. The dance community is small, and relationships with coaches often come full circle. A coach you interact with today could become a mentor, future co-worker, or advocate down the line. Just like dancers wouldn’t want to be left with unanswered questions from a program, coaches don’t appreciate being left in the dark either. They will respect you more if you communicate openly rather than not at all. Even if you decide to go in a different direction, a simple message to close the conversation on good terms goes a long way.

Q: What if a coach gives me a deadline, but I’m waiting for another audition?
A: I’ve had this conversation with many dancers recently—those who were recruited and even offered a spot at one program but are auditioning for another at a later time. Coaches sometimes give deadlines for responses, which can be stressful. However, in most cases, when dancers openly communicate with coaches about their situation, those coaches are more willing to work with them and be understanding. Instead of assuming a deadline is non-negotiable, have an honest conversation, it can lead to more flexibility than you might expect.

Q: How can I be honest with a coach without closing any doors too soon?
A: It’s all about striking a balance between honesty and strategy. A response like, “I’m exploring different programs to find the best fit, but I really admire what I’ve seen from your team so far,” keeps the conversation open while showing genuine interest. Coaches appreciate knowing where they stand with recruits, and being upfront, without making premature decisions, demonstrates maturity.

Q: Dance isn’t an NCAA-sanctioned sport. Does that impact recruitment timelines?
A: Unlike NCAA sports, dance recruitment doesn’t have rigid deadlines, which means dancers have more flexibility. However, this also means dancers must be proactive in their communication. If one school doesn’t work out, others may still have open spots on different timelines. Keeping communication open ensures you don’t miss out on potential opportunities simply because a coach wasn’t aware of your situation.

Q: How does social media affect my recruitment process?
A: Social media plays a huge role in recruitment. If you constantly post yourself wearing another team’s gear, a coach may assume you’re already committed elsewhere and move on to another recruit. While sharing your journey is important, be mindful of how your online presence reflects your recruitment process. A balanced approach, highlighting your skills and experiences without unintentionally signaling commitment, keeps more doors open.

Q: What’s the your biggest piece if advice when it comes to this process?
A: Recruitment is a two-way street, and communication is everything. Being transparent, professional, and mindful of your social media presence will not only help you navigate the recruitment process successfully but also build lasting relationships within the dance community. Whether or not you ultimately join a particular team, how you handle these interactions will shape your reputation for years to come. Remember, the goal is not just to get recruited but to build a network of support that can benefit your dance career well into the future.