How to Handle Audition Rejection (And Come out Stronger)
The biggest fear of every pro cheer/dance audition candidate is being rejected. When you’re not chosen to be part of your dream team, surely, you’ll ask yourself questions like…
Why did I fail?
What did I do wrong?
I gave my best, but why isn’t it enough?
Oftentimes, we prepare ourselves for that big success moment… but rarely do we think about what we should do or how we should respond when failure happens.
Failure is inevitable and it’s something that we shouldn’t be embarrassed about. Failure can be painful, but know this: You can use failure to your advantage by making it a tool for your future success.
Here are five ways to handle audition rejection and learn from and build on it!
1. Know that it’s not the end.
Failing at a pro cheer/dance audition is not the end of the world. You may have told yourself previously that “This is my one and only chance to make the team” but the reality is, you’ve still got years ahead of you! Do not let one audition decide for your whole life. Get up and make that positive commitment to try again.
2. Take note of the lessons you learned.
If there is one thing that a failed audition does, it takes your performance to the next level. How so? Each time you fail, you carry with you new realizations and insights on how you can do better. For example, a candidate who didn’t make the team may realize that she needs to take more dance lessons to perfect her technique. Or she needs to improve her articulation in public speaking.
3. Read about or watch other failures.
You are not the only person who failed in history. I know it may sound funny, but when we fail, we focus too much on our pain that we forget that great people have had the worst failures as well. I encourage you to read books or watch YouTube videos that talk about people’s failures and how they helped them. Be inspired by their stories.
4. Appreciate your strengths.
First of all, you need to give yourself a pat on the back for being brave and courageous enough to audition! Not everyone has the guts to show up. While you think about the areas where you can improve, also think about the things you are actually good at. You may require more help with your dancing, but remember that you’ve already nailed your audition attire and overall appearance. When you appreciate yourself, you gain confidence and the strength to always do your best.
5. Don’t keep it bottled up inside!
If you want to heal from your emotional pain, it really helps to let it out into the light. Talk about your experience with someone you trust. Have a conversation with a close friend or family member who understands. This person may have a good word that will lift you up. In fact, simply having someone to listen (even if that person doesn’t give advice) is more than enough.
Bottom line: Move forward! Accept that audition rejection can happen to anyone - even to the best performers. Do not take it personally, but use it as a stepping stone for growth.
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