First, the pieces
of advice that multiple people suggested:
Care about your students. It's about them, not you. –
Paula J. ...Valerie agreed, saying you should make your student feel better about
themselves not worse because they're competing with you! Others extended this
idea, with MJ saying to always remain humble and Patti reminding us that you’re
an instructor, not a performer. Emma adds to remember WHY you became an instructor, no
matter how popular your class is YOU are only as good as your class… use your
strengths and work on your weaknesses.
Christi said, “Connect with your students and make them
ALL feel included.” Cindy agrees that it’s all about connecting, including both
your students and other instructors. Bonnie had a similar piece of advice: Say
hi and acknowledge EVERY single student, no matter what you think of them…. Some
students will become discouraged by being ignored.
Keep it simple. If they feel successful, they will
return! – Paula Y., Sonja, and Lynne
Cherie said Love what you do...everyday...no
exceptions...you are there for them and only them...everything else will
follow. Efi agreed, saying that if you love Zumba, everything will be OK…
students feel your energy!
Some shared very
practical, logistical advice:
Rob and Denise both said to always have a back up for music (a CD, a cheap mp3 player, whatever…)
Practice. A lot. – Jacqueline … Darla and Kelly agree,
and suggested practicing just by listening to the music a few times to learn
the song as well as you learn the moves!
Take Pro Skills – Marylin
If you are facing your students, lead with your left side!
– Sandra
Don’t look at your students’ feet. If they are off, then
it will throw you off too. Look at their eyes and keep a smile on your face. –
Amy
Others focused on
the behavioral and emotional side of being an instructor:
Don't take it personally!! – Cindy
Have fun! – Patria
Don't take yourself too seriously - everyone screws up
routines every now and again! – Cayla
BE YOU AND NO ONE ELSE! – Nekisha
Don't forget to add the flare!! – Jodi
Patience!! Don't be in a hurry and take your time! –
Melanie
And, here’s my
advice:
Be a professional. This means dressing the part, checking
your own baggage at the door, being prepared and knowing your stuff, having
back up music/clothes/whatever, treating all students with respect, and not
letting personal relationships (good or bad) impact the class. Even though
classes should be super fun for students, it’s
job for us (a fun job, yes, but still a job!) and we have to treat it
that way!
What else would you add?
Don't let your life issues show in class! The students need to see a happy energetic instructor :D
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