For teens navigating the world of the performing arts, knowing how to ask for what they need is an essential skill. Empowering teen performers with effective communication strategies includes learning how to give constructive feedback and advocating for their needs in a respectful manner. Mastering these communication strategies enables teen performers to get their needs met for more effective progress and success.
Understanding the Dynamics
Before addressing strategies, it’s important to understand the dynamics at play when teens interact with authority figures in the performing arts. Often, there’s a power imbalance that can make teens hesitant to express themselves fully. They may fear repercussions or worry about not being taken seriously.
For example, consider if the person a young performer needs to address makes casting decisions for the school musical. It may feel uncomfortable to engage in dialogue fearing this person potentially taking a retaliatory action when casting decisions are made. Even if the person does not consciously take retaliatory action, they may unconsciously think, “This teen is high maintenance; I don’t have time to manage that.”
Ensuring teens feel they are in a safe and supportive environment where they are encouraged to voice their opinions and concerns is important to empower teens in learning this important and valuable skill. With this in mind, here are some strategies to help teens speak up for themselves confidently and assertively.
Communication Strategies for Teen Performers
Avoid Giving Black or White Feedback
Discuss the art of providing feedback that is constructive and balanced with teens. Blanket statements like “That lesson was terrible” offer little in terms of actionable improvement. Instead, encourage teens to pinpoint specific areas for improvement while also acknowledging strengths. This approach fosters a more productive dialogue and helps build trust between teens and authority figures.
Example:
“I wanted to talk about the lesson you taught yesterday. I really appreciated when you discussed X and Y. It was a little confusing when you talked about how it relates to Z. When I asked a few friends to clarify and they were also confused. Would you consider going over it again in class tomorrow but maybe with a different example?”
Be Open to Reciprocal Feedback
Teach adolescents that two way communication strategies enables teen performers to demonstrate maturity and willingness to grow as a performer. While it’s essential for teens to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns, it’s equally important for them to be open to receiving feedback from adults and peers alike. Creating an environment that normalizes reciprocal feedback allows teens to benefit from diverse perspectives and insights, ultimately enhancing their performance skills.
Example:
“I have some ideas about shifting how I play this role and want to discuss them with you. I’d also like to hear if there is anything specific you think I could focus on to improve?”
Accept Unexpected Responses
Teach teens that not all feedback will be aligned with the outcome they are hoping for. Sometimes, adults may offer insights or suggestions that differ from what they anticipated. Encourage them to listen with an open mind and consider the perspectives being offered. This ability to process and integrate unexpected responses fosters adaptability and resilience, valuable qualities for any performer navigating the ever-changing landscape of the arts.
Example:
“I really appreciate that you took the time to give me feedback. I’m going to think about what you said and how I can use it moving forward.”
Plan Out What You Want To Say
Encourage teens to organize their thoughts before approaching an authority figure. Planning what they want to convey can help them articulate their feedback or needs more effectively. It can also help if they find themselves feeling flustered or rushed during the interaction. Presenting their thoughts in a clear and coherent manner will increase the likelihood of their message being understood and taken seriously.
Example:
“I’ve been reflecting on the last dance number in the show and why so many of the dancers seem to be having issues hitting their marks. I wrote down some ideas on what we can consider changing to make things work better. Are you open to discussing them?”
Cultivate a Habit of Offering Feedback
Practice makes perfect. Create an environment where offering feedback is welcome and expected, both in rehearsals and outside of them. This habit will help them become more comfortable with communication and demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement. By actively engaging in the feedback process, teens not only enhance their own skills but they also learn to actively participate in a collaborative community.
Example:
“I’ve noticed a few areas where I think we could tweak the choreography to make it more impactful. Can we brainstorm some ideas together?”
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Setting the tone for asking open-ended questions is a great way to model how this is helpful for expansive communication. Make it a habit to ask open-ended questions to foster discussion and gain deeper insights into their performance or situation. Because open-ended questions invite dialogue and encourage critical thinking, it allows teens to discuss different perspectives.
Example:
“What are your thoughts on how I can elevate my performance to the next level?”
Frame Needs Positively
When teens know how to frame their needs positively, they will be more effective in communicating those needs. Focusing on what they require instead of what they perceive as lacking encourages them to engage in critical thinking. When they come into a situation and communicate their needs in this manner, it’s not only less confrontational, but also leads to more constructive outcomes.
Example:
“I could benefit from additional guidance in interpreting this musical passage. Can we work together to help me develop a clearer understanding?”
Confirm Understanding
To ensure clarity, encourage teens to paraphrase or repeat back the feedback they’ve received. This confirms comprehension and allows for clarification if needed. Confirming and clarifying understanding as a regular part of their communication strategies enables teen performers to demonstrate their willingness to implement the feedback they are given.
Example:
“Just to be clear, you’re suggesting that I focus on improving my vocal projection during the bridge. Is that correct?”
Conclusion
Empowering teen performers with effective communication strategies in the arts involves nurturing their confidence, fostering open dialogue, and providing practical tools for expressing themselves respectfully. By implementing this approach and encouraging open communication, parents, teachers, directors, and other mentors will assist teens in learning how to navigate communication with confidence and grace. These effective communication strategies enable teen performers to get their needs met and develop valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the performing arts.
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