Get to know the choreographer who is taking her dance troupe to all over the world via video - Blog
" Since the beginning, Korma has led multiple classes a week teaching dance that mixes traditional West African dances with current dances that are contemporary. After her studio was shut down because of COVID-19 Korma had hoped that her upcoming concert with her local dance group was going to go as planned So they decided to conduct their practice session online via Zoom. Then she realized that online classes could prove to provide a solution to her new reality of distance. "I researched classes and started advertising on the internet," says Korma. "I thought that there would be no one who would attend, but I made a point of showing on time. I was surprised when people would log in every time."
1. Show up
When Korma first launched online classes Korma was determined to not let her lack of experience with online teaching deter her from launching right in. "I thought that no one was going to attend my initial online classes, but I was determined to show at the door," recalls Korma. "I started classes 5 times a week and to my delight, students were always logged in." In providing a safe space for her clients to learn and practice dance, Korma is able to bring her community together, and connect them whenever they're at their work. "After the class I could feel smiles on the faces of the students and that's what keeps me going."
2. You shouldn't be expecting it to be perfect
"At the conclusion of the day , my classes do not focus on perfection," says Korma. "I teach students that they're here to move and develop how to do something new or improve their older ones. And as long as they can move, they are succeeding." This is the same to any business with a small budget. -- if you're standing up on the virtual platform in the first place, understand that not everything goes as smoothly, and that's okay. "Nobody has online interactive classes completely figured out but you can be patient with yourself," reminds Korma.
3. Continue to learn
"Every every week I learn some new technology and techniques to improve my experience" says Korma. "My recommendation is to approach things one at a time." One of Korma's most difficult learning curves was the sheer quantity of content she had to write -- And fast. "I wanted to let the world know my work and show what I could accomplish. I've had a profile on LinkedIn for several years, but made use of it more for my personal reasons. Then I needed to consider it from a business point of view."
4. Keep your cool
It's important to remember that it's not always normal, particularly if you're used to interacting face-to-face. "Online interactions can be stressful at first however, it will get easier when you practice it," says Korma. "Try the first time with your family and friends. Be sure to reach out for help." Building comfort before the camera takes time, however, if you keep at it, it can result in an better experience for your customers.
5. Be sure to listen to your family and friends
6. Stick with it
Although going online may seem as a temporary option however, many small business owners have discovered the online courses are allowing them to grow their audiences beyond their local community. "The surprising benefit of this is that our courses are able to reach more people outside of Minnesota across different regions around the globe," Korma says. Korma.