How Can I Deal with Audition Rejection?
“No” is a word we wouldn’t want to hear, especially when we’ve given our best in an audition. Like with all job interviews, there are a limited number of spots to fill the world of pro cheer and dance. Before you throw in the towel and promise yourself never to audition again, it’s important to keep in mind that rejection will always be part of the process.
If you’re facing rejection right now or want to prepare yourself for the possibility, know that there are healthy ways to cope. One of the best things you can do is to turn rejection into a positive experience. This article will show you how.
Try to understand why you did not make the team.
Be honest with yourself. Recall your preparation journey and the audition day and identify areas that probably needed improvement. Was it your dance routine? Stage presence? The way you answered the questions during the interview? As you view your experience, do it from a place of learning, not criticism. Treat it as an opportunity to refine your craft.
Related: How to Handle Constructive Criticism Like a Champ
Think of 3 things you did that were positive.
If you look for it, you’ll be able to find something worth appreciating about the whole audition experience — even if it’s not immediately obvious. Perhaps it’s the fact that you tried your best to make time for audition prep despite a hectic schedule or a compliment you received on the big day. Whatever positive thing took place, dwell on it and be thankful.
Don’t take it personally.
When you get rejected, it’s easy to think that you’re not good enough as a dancer or professional cheerleader. You should not take rejection personally — it’s the nature of the business that you will not be selected for everything you audition for, and there are just too many dancers out there, and not enough team spots. Even the most talented candidates out there have been told “no” multiple times before making the team. So, don’t give up.
Practice self-care.
It’s totally okay to admit that you got upset by the results of the audition. Crying it out can even help you calm down and process your emotions. More importantly, do something that will make you feel better. Treat yourself by taking a walk in nature. Watch a funny movie. Sleep in and eat your favorite food. Go to a fancy coffee place and order an espresso. Pamper yourself for your hard work.
Consider trying out again.
Here’s the best piece of advice we can give you: If this is really your dream, try out again. Life is too short to wait on the sidelines when you should be pursuing your goals, but also long enough that you can keep at it when a goal proves difficult to reach on the first try. Judge panels rotate, circumstances change, and you will change over time as well!
Remember why you started this journey. Don’t let this temporary setback get you down. Accept that things happen for a reason and trust that your next audition is going to be better.
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