There are a few key elements that every dance studio website should include, to enhance the studio's presence on the web and its impact on the dance industry.
Introduction of the Studio and Owner
A mission statement, or short letter from the owner of the dance studio explaining the studio's purpose and goals, can make a big impact if it is well-written, concise, and emphasizes the strengths of the particular studio. By outlining the studio's mission and goals, prospective clients can get a better idea of what the studio is trying to accomplish, and current clients can have a handy reminder of the studio's directive.
It is a good idea to pair this statement with a current, professional headshot of the studio owner. This allows a personal touch on the site, and gives visitors a face to put with the name (which is usually the name of the studio as well).
Introduction of the Staff
Parents need to know that their children are being placed in capable hands when they enter the dance studio. Having a page on the website to introduce faculty members and office staff will do just that. Each employee's entry should include their dance training, teacher training, and performance or choreography credits. They should also include professional headshots, and read almost like a resume.
Communication with Students, Parents and Staff
As with any website, there should be a section on each page detailing the contact information of the studio. There should also be information or links directing visitors to school closings for inclement weather, which can alleviate unnecessary phone calls to the studio in some cases.
With a larger studio, it may be a good idea to set up a password-protected contact area. This way, parents can log into a private section and post their contact information, which can be used for carpooling needs, party planning, getting directions to a competition venue, or personal networking between parents. By building a private, secure section of the website for this information, parents can work together and create a deeper network.
There should also be a page on the website with updated news and information for students and parents. This can either take the place of, or be used in addition to, a printed quarterly or monthly newsletter handed out to all students. It is important that any online communications, especially those that are time-sensitive, are updated on a regular basis to avoid any confusion.
The More Information, the Better
While some studios decline posting prices of classes on their websites, that is up to the studio owner to decide. The more current, relevant information that is posted on the website, the fewer phone calls the studio will receive asking those questions. If some information is more sensitive, there is always the option to create password-protected sections, where currently enrolled students and parents can log in. These passwords can be changed each season, depending on the studio's needs.
Creating a page or inbox for suggestions can give parents and students a chance to voice their concerns, comments, or praise for the studio. By sending out surveys periodically to anyone in the network, studio owners can stay on top of what their clients need and want. Showing that the studio is open to the suggestions of their clients, even if just on the website, can be a key selling point in the direction of the studio.
Personal Touches with Photos and Video
Images and video of the studio's dancers in performance can be an eye-catching tool to use on the studio's website. However, studio owners should be sure that they have the parents' permission to use images of their child or children online before posting. This consent may be obtained by distributing a privacy policy at the beginning of the season for parents to sign. The privacy policy should also be posted on the website.
By including all relevant information, communication opportunities, and images of the studio and dancers, a dance studio can have an optimal presence on the internet.
Terry Finch - Terry Finch is a dance teacher and choreographer in Central PA with an extensive training and teaching background in many forms of ...
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