Meet the choreographer taking her dance community global with video - Blog
" Since her first class, Korma has led multiple classes a week teaching dance that blends traditional West African dances with current dances that are contemporary. The studio she was working in had to close because of COVID-19 Korma was initially hopeful that the next performance event with her dance club was going to go as planned -- so they took their class online through Zoom. Then Korma realized that online classes could provide a solution to her new reality of distance. "I researched classes and started advertising online," says Korma. "I feared that no one would attend, but I made a point of showing on time. I was surprised when people would log in every moment."
1. Just show up
When Korma first began online courses She did not let the inexperience with online teaching deter her from launching right in. "I thought that no one would be able to join my first classes online, but I was determined to show at the door," recalls Korma. "I began classes five each week. To my surprise, people came in on a regular basis." In offering a safe place for her clients to learn and dance, Korma is able to bring her community together, and connect them whenever they are in their practice. "After class I could witness smiles on the faces of the students and that's what kept my enthusiasm."
2. You shouldn't be expecting perfection.
"At the conclusion of the day , my classes do not focus on perfection," says Korma. "I remind students that they're here to be active and develop the latest skills or to practice the old ones. As you can make them move, they are winning." The same goes to any business with a small budget. -- If you're setting up an online experience for the first time, understand that not everything is going to go smoothly but that's fine. "Nobody is able to have interactive online courses figured out 100% but you can be patient with yourself." Korma says. Korma.
3. Continue to learn
"Every week, I discover things about technology that improve my experience" Korma says. Korma. "My recommendation is to approach everything one step at a." One of the most challenging learning curves was the sheer amount of content she needed to create -- and fast. "I needed a way to show the world my work and show what I was able to do. I've been using a profile for several years, but used it more for personal use. Then I needed to consider it from a business point of view."
4. Keep your cool
Remember that things won't always feel like they're natural, especially if familiar with interacting in person. "Online appearances can be nerve-wracking at first However, they get better after a few times," says Korma. "Try the first time with family and acquaintances. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance." Making yourself comfortable before the camera takes time, but keeping at it will provide a greater immersion for your clients.
5. Listen to your people
6. Stick with it
While going virtual might feel like a temporary solution, many small business owners are finding that online courses can help them expand their audiences beyond their local communities. "The most surprising aspect of this is the fact that our courses are being able to be accessed by more people beyond Minnesota and in other parts of the world,"" says Korma.