Feedback is a large part of a dancer’s experience and growth. Whether you give advice to your peers or receive critiques from your teacher, handling feedback with grace and respect is important! With so many kinds of feedback to give and receive, knowing how to navigate the ins and outs of these conversations is a major skill.
Giving Feedback
Do: Be Specific and Helpful
The more specific feedback is the more helpful it can be. Focus on a particular part of the dance that you want to give feedback on. Instead of just saying, “I didn’t like it,” you could say something like, “Try to be more intentional with each movement.” Constructive feedback like that is what allows dancers to have something to work on and keep in mind when they are dancing.
Don’t: Be Judgemental or Harsh
Everyone is learning and growing at their own pace, and their dance style might not be for you. And that is totally okay! That is what makes us all special and stand out as dancers. So avoid making any personal or judgemental comments, and always try to leave a positive impact when giving feedback.
Do: Stay Respectful and Kind
You never know how somebody’s day is going, so make sure that even though you are giving constructive criticism, you are staying kind and respectful. Always keep in mind the other person’s feelings.
Receiving Feedback
Do: Have an Open Mind
The whole point of getting feedback is to benefit you so that you can improve. So it is up to you to make sure that you are listening and paying attention when others are giving you helpful feedback. Keep an open mind and wait to think about the feedback until after you have received it all.
Don’t: Take it all to heart
Feedback is all about how you are performing or about your technique. It says nothing about you as a person. So avoid the instinct to take comments personally. The comments should focus on your dancing and improving your skills. It is part of the process.
Do: Ask lots of Questions
If someone gives you feedback you need clarification on, don’t be afraid to raise your hand and ask. This will show that you value what they had to say and want to apply it to your dancing so that you can improve.
Don’t: Get stuck on the Feedback
Focus on moving forward with the criticism you received rather than focusing on what you did wrong. Use the feedback as motivation to keep improving the next time.
Do: Say Thank You
Taking time to give valuable and helpful feedback is a kind effort! So make sure you thank them for their time and feedback.
