How’s your dance?
I don’t know about you, but every time I’m asked this question in an audition I turn into a bumbling fool.
As actors, we seem to have this deep seeded fear of overselling ourselves and not meeting expectations. (Facing rejection on a day to day basis can do that to you). So rather than responding confidently and proudly with a number between 1 and 10, we fumble so much that even if we were a prima ballerina it wouldn’t matter.
You are in sales. Even if you became an actor to avoid being in sales, the fact is you’re in it and you better get good at it if you want to work. Every moment you’re in that audition room and every extra word you get to say is an opportunity to close the deal.
You have to present the product information (the product being you of course) honestly and accurately, but how you deliver the information can have a huge impact on the outcome. I know I wouldn’t want to buy a product from someone who suddenly turns into an unsure rambling mess when I ask them a question. Would you?
So take a moment. Rate yourself fairly on a scale of 1 to 10 in ballet, jazz, and tap. It’s not easy. Sometimes I feel like a 5 and sometimes I feel like a 9. But rather than going through that whole monologue in your head when you’re asked in the room, do the legwork at home so the next time you’re asked, you can respond confidently with a straightforward number, no matter where it lands on the scale.
Taking ownership of your skill set is way more attractive than a great talent who can’t answer a simple question with poise.
