Follow these rules to ensure you have the energy and headspace to deliver inspirational singing lessons.
Is it your dream to run a successful singing business and enjoy a healthy work/life balance?
If so, the good news is you can do both. However, it’s only possible if you set clear boundaries around how you run your studio.
Now, you might argue that you’re a creative first and foremost and boundaries or rules aren’t your thing.
But by clearly articulating what you expect from students and what you’ll give them in return, everyone wins.
Students will know where they stand and respect your professionalism, and you’ll have more energy to deliver awesome singing lessons.
Here are seven golden rules you should have in your singing studio to prevent burnout. How many have you already implemented?
Payment and cancellation policy
Be clear about when you expect payment for lessons, and how much notice a student must give if they want to cancel a session.
Incorporate this policy into your student intake form and ask clients to confirm they understand the rules. Also, display your policy in a prominent location in the studio.
Stick to your schedule
Working long days without regular rest and meal breaks can drain you physically and mentally.
Identify how many hours a week you’re willing to work and be strict with yourself about sticking to this schedule. Make space in your diary for exercise and socialising too.
Social media and communications
Be wary of answering emails or WhatsApp messages during your downtime, as students can assume that you’re always on call – and your phone will be pinging at all hours.
If you share your number with clients, explain that you’ll only respond to messages within office hours unless it’s an emergency.
Illness
It’s important to avoid being in close contact with people who are unwell: a bad cold or flu could keep you in bed for a week, depriving you of income.
Explain to students that if they feel under the weather they should stay home, and you’ll pivot to an online lesson. If the student shouldn’t be singing for health reasons, focus on ear training or sightreading instead.
Timekeeping
Ask students to turn up five minutes early for a lesson to ensure you can start on time. If a student is persistently late, explain that the issue is eating into their lesson time.
Practise what you preach and ensure you don’t go over time in lessons.
Free work
Agreeing to work for free can be a great way to build experience and contacts, but take steps to ensure you don’t get exploited.
If you agree to work for free, outline the time you’re willing to commit to the project. Explain how much you charge should the individual or organisation require your services further.
Emotional issues
Often, singers open up in lessons and discuss highly personal matters. But, unless you have a counselling qualification, stay in your lane. Providing a compassionate, listening ear is fine, but don’t act as a therapist.
If a singer is going through a difficult or distressing time, recommend they seek professional support.
Learn more
Want to know more about how to have the confidence to set better boundaries? Line Hilton has years of experience running a successful singing studio and shares her insights in this Singing Teachers Talk podcast episode.
