There was a time when I had no idea how to find a yoga job. None. I was clueless. Until I decided to train as a yoga teacher, I'd followed the usual path that included education and employment. I used specialist recruiters to search and secure the right position, and when it was time to move on, I’d repeat the process. Easy.
I was used to a salary, without any gap. A lump sum of money that got deposited into my bank account, monthly. So when I chose to become a teacher, I’d never experienced being self-employed.
We All Have to Start Somewhere
At almost 30, I was starting again. In the beginning, it was a hustle AND a hassle. I had to take any chance that came my way.
Although I’m grateful for all the experiences I've had, not all of them were great. In fact, some were a complete disaster. Mis-understanding, miscommunication, high expectations, and low pay were all part of those early years as I tried to navigate my way towards my ideal yoga job.
I’ve learned to deal with some of the uncertainty. But the truth is, I also realized that the time comes when you need to be creative, clever and considered when chasing opportunity. I discovered, as a yoga teacher, that curating the right contacts and having a portfolio of useful, professional assets in your arsenal helps.
Finding the perfect yoga job came sometimes feel overwhelming. The route to connecting you with the right opportunity, less clear. But the industry is changing fast, as demand for good quality yoga teachers in locations all over the world increases. Ensuring you are well prepared will help you to land the right opportunity when it comes along.
Guide to Landing Your Ideal Yoga Travel Job
If you're still on the hunt for your ideal yoga job, here's a little something I put together that will hopefully help you in your job hunting and career as a yoga teacher.
Create Your Ultimate Yoga Travel Job Wishlist
To define your wish list, you have to consider what is important to you. Ask yourself the following:
- How far are you willing to travel and for how long?
- What kind of environment would you like most, ie. beach or mountains, isolation over bustle, hot or cool climate?
- Do you specifically want to teach or would you consider another role within a retreat center or spa, such as retreat manager, host, chef, etc?
- Do you need to get paid or would you consider a work exchange or being a karma yogi?
Once you have a clearer vision of your ideal yoga travel job, hold it in your heart and refer to it while job hunting.
Develop a List of Go-to, Reliable, Online Resources
Unlike when I began teaching, there are now a few fantastic websites that help connect yoga employers with prospective yogi-employees. A couple of my favorites are:
- YogaTravelJobs – A yoga-specific platform that lists yoga travel jobs all over the world. From free to a small annual fee, you get your own yoga passport, can create your own profile, save your preferences, and join the online community. YogaTravelJobs lists paid positions and volunteer jobs.
- Facebook Groups – There are yoga jobs ALL over the world on Facebook! Join this group and keep your eyes open for people posting opportunities that excite you.
Build Your Network
As you travel and teach, talk to people about what you do and stay in touch. You’ll be surprised what doors may open for you over time.
Own and Invest In Your Own Website
…and I mean really own it. In our digital age, having a half-arsed, homemade website won’t cut it. If you want the good jobs, you need to get used to presenting yourself professionally and attending to the business end of being in the yoga business.
It doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive, but investing time in getting this valuable asset right is more than worth it. If you are not tech savvy, save up to have something simple designed and built properly, or use an online website builder like Heek to help you. It will pay off in the long run.
Keep your web content clear and concise. Don’t labor your personal story and ensure the primary focus is on what you have to offer others.
Create a Yoga CV
Update your CV to include your yoga experience and training. If you did a different job before becoming a yoga teacher, highlight any transferable skills that complement your teaching.
Present Yourself
Not all of us are comfortable in front of the camera, but people like to see you before they buy into you. Have a few yoga snaps handy that say something about you, your teaching style, and/or your approach.
Some employers will ask you for a video of you teaching, especially if they’re recruiting you remotely. So use your phone or a GoPro to capture one of your classes, post it on Vimeo with password protection and if someone asks, it's ready and waiting to be watched.
Writing your own blog or using Instagram can also help build recognition and credibility as a yoga teacher.
Collect Testimonials From Previous Students
Prospective students and employers alike will appreciate recommendations from an impartial party, as these are often perceived to be more trustworthy. So start gathering testimonials from students and previous employers to include in your CV and on your website.
Finally, good luck. 90% of success is always down to careful and considered planning. Prepare now and you will put yourself firmly on the path towards your dream job.
Image credit: Sanaa Jaman
