By Hannah McMullen
Most of us, as Pilates instructors, got into the industry because we love Pilates. We’re passionate about how it changes lives and want to share that with the world. For many of us, teaching Pilates is a dream come true. However, it only takes one bad experience with the wrong studio to realize that it’s not just about teaching Pilates, but teaching it at the right studio and to the right clients.
For all of us, this might look different. Some instructors prefer privates and small groups, and others thrive off big groups. Some instructors love classical work, and others are all about getting creative with choreography and moves. It’s not about what’s right or wrong – but what’s right for us. So how exactly do you land your dream Pilates job?
I’ve been teaching for 8 years and have moved around quite a bit – so I have experience with both dream and not-so-dreamy jobs. This is what I’ve learned for how to find, and land your dream Pilates gig.
1. Be Authentically Yourself
If you teach rehabilitative, technical pilates – then pursue jobs at studios that do the same. If you prefer a fitness-style Pilates, then find a fitness Pilates studio to work at. This relates to getting to know the studio (next on my list), but also getting to know yourself. What kinds of sessions leave you energized and excited, vs. drained and exhausted? Know yourself, know the studio, and be honest if the two of you are a match.
2. Get to Know the Studio
If possible, take classes with multiple instructors at the studio where you would like to work. This helps you to understand the style of teaching and expectations for classes. If the classes aren’t aligned with how you teach, don’t pursue a job there. There’s nothing worse than trying to change yourself to fit the mold of someone else – and you’ll feel that immediately. If you can’t take classes, research studios online – using their websites, Instagram, and PlankeApp studio profiles.
3. Network Smarter
Never, and I mean never, send a blind email to a studio introducing yourself and asking for a job. There are only two ways to approach a studio for work:
- Join the studio community – take their classes, get to know their clients and instructors and once you’ve built a connection with an instructor, ask for an intro to the hiring manager or owner. When you get that connection (and you will), point out what you love about the studio and why you are a great fit for them (and their clients).
- Network on PlankeApp. First, complete your profile, including a demo video – this is an almost guaranteed way that you can demonstrate your talent immediately to the studio. Then, message them – if they are on PlankeApp, they are interested in networking. Like I said above, tell them what you love about their studio and specifically why you’d be a good match. Say that you would love to be considered for their sub list or as a candidate if they are currently hiring. When they get your message, they will definitely view your profile and see for themselves why they should be interested in getting to know you.
4. When You’re Being Interviewed, Interview Back.
A job interview isn’t just to see if the studio wants to hire you – but also to see if you want to work there.
- Ask them questions about their clients, culture, and job expectations.
- Are you expected to do front desk check-in?
- How would the studio describe their class style and clients?
Again, be honest with what you want and what you have to offer and you’ll find the right studio home.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away.
If you do find yourself working in a studio that isn’t right for you, leave. Obviously, there are practical considerations like making sure you have savings or another job lined up – but prioritize those things so that you can leave as quickly as possible. It is incredibly draining to work for the wrong studio, and none of us got into this industry to be unhappy with our job. The plus side of this situation? Once you know exactly what you don’t want, it’s even easier to focus on finding and getting your dream job.
The TLDR.
Know yourself and the studios you want to work for. Don’t just promote yourself, but connect your style and qualifications to the specific needs of the studio, and keep trying until you find your perfect Pilates home. It’s out there, I promise.
About the Author
Hannah has been teaching Pilates for the past 8 years, owns a Pilates studio in Rochester, NY and is the co-founder of PlankeApp.