Yoga Teacher Jobs

Many new instructors are surprised to learn that landing their first yoga teacher job is a process like numerous other professions. You have to be prepared to work a little harder, pull extra hours, and take the low-rung assignments. This dedication is what demonstrates to the studio owner that you’re serious about yoga.

The old adage, “How do I gain experience when no one will give me a job so I can get experience?” is true for just about every profession. However, in yoga, new instructors have an apprenticeship advantage.

Depending on the program, you may have to have to acquire teaching hours in order to complete certification. Many teachers develop a small class of students, charging only a nominal fee per student or class, to meet this qualification. This practice helps you build a base of clients who will likely follow you to a new studio, a concept many studio owners find attractive.

Think about other venues that will benefit from your teachings. Senior centers, community centers, “yoga in the park” events, community ed classes, domestic shelters, even jails—all these settings have the potential for you to establish a regular teaching schedule, improve your skills, and share yoga.

When you can demonstrate to prospective studio owners that you have experience teaching all types of people in various situations, they have confidence that your style will serve their clients well.

Achieving yoga certification is a major accomplishment, and you likely selected a yoga style with purposeful intent. Although that style may be the primary focus of your yoga teaching job, increase your hiring potential by opening yourself up to other techniques and ideas. This versatility makes you more marketable.

Many studio owners respect continuing education, and understand if you are intending to try this or that. However, take care not to elaborate, as this is often more transparent than people realize.

Conduct detailed research on a studio by reviewing its Web site, taking various classes and, if necessary, familiarizing yourself with the particular style or core philosophy if it differs slightly from your own. Once you have some studios in mind, take classes with the owners. Follow-up with a card or e-mail afterward, stating your employment interest and purpose.

Some of the other basics for applying for yoga teacher jobs include:

• Provide references. These can be from your certification instructor, longtime students, as well as the director of special programs for which you taught yoga (e.g., the activities director of a senior center).
• Share your life experiences. Whether you were a corporate executive, a stay-at-home mom, a baker, or a world traveler, these life experiences have undoubtedly shaped your yoga practice, so explain how.
• Prepare a demonstration. Studio owners want to lift your hood and kick your tires, and the best way to do that is for you to demonstrate how you’d lead a class. Remember, you’ll impress owners more if you show how you’d teach someone new to yoga, instead of a seasoned practitioner. Don’t hesitate to touch, explain, and guide during your demonstration.
• Show an understanding of marketing. How will you work with the studio to attract students to your classes? What are you willing to do to help the studio gain more exposure in the community? It’s important to combine your yogic ability with business savvy so the partnership is successful for everyone.

Studio business structures vary, but here are some general talking points when discussing your yoga teacher job.

1. Does the studio provide liability insurance, or are you responsible for it? If the studio provides it, do you pay for a portion?
2. Will you get paid per student or per class? If per student, what is the percentage split? If per class, will you get paid regardless of the number of students signed up verses those attending?
3. How are substitutions arranged?
4. Are you be responsible for cleaning or supply fees?
5. Are all resources available to you, such as front desk reception, laundry facilities, and class supplies?
6. Will there be other studio duties you’re responsible for?
7. Will you be allowed to organize workshops or special sessions?

You’ve worked hard to earn your certification, and maybe you’ve built a clientele. However, at this studio, you’re a newbie, and most studio owners agree that attitude will take you far.

• Some studios take on new instructors on an as-needed or volunteer basis, just to see if styles and personalities are compatible. Think of this as an internship.
• Be prepared to accept class times that may be less than desirable.
• Agree to fill in for other instructors whenever necessary.
• Offer your services as an assistant during workshops and teaching sessions.

Your first yoga teaching job, like the rest of your yoga journey, is a process of understanding and self-discovery. Maintain your sense of balance by staying open to possibilities.

Learn more about preparing for a teaching job in this Yoga Journal article.

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