What the best leaders do differently 💡

Top Tips for Success as a Leader 🏆

Wouldn't you love to be that sought after dancer who makes their partner swoon with happiness?

What are the things that we can do as leaders to be exceptional social dancers and to make the dance fun and memorable for our follower?

Make a Connection 💛

Asking for the dance - this sets the tone. If someone asks you to dance and you smile widely and say “Yes, I’d love to!” they will feel relaxed, confident, and ready to dance their best.

During the dance - enjoy your time together. Make eye contact (if appropriate), smile or have a pleasant expression. This helps your partner feel at ease so you can have a more enjoyable dance together.

After the dance - you may simply say thank you, share a hug, and/or give them a compliment.

Specific compliments are great: “You’re such a good follower; that was fun!” or “Wow, you danced those pivots so smoothly”

People will remember these comments and they'll treasure their time on the dance floor with you.

Assess Your Partner 🧐

The best social dancers evaluate a new partner before taking a single step. This isn't a judgment - it gives you the knowledge to craft an enjoyable dance experience for you both.

Because leading isn't about doing every single move you know or showing off your most advanced combinations. You want to choose figures that are most suited for your follower’s ability.

From the very first step to the last note, you want your partner to feel successful and taken care of.

How to evaluate your follower?

Take hold and notice - often you can tell the skill level of your partner just through their frame and connection.
Then, do a few weight changes, side hesitations, or isolations to see how their body responds.
As you dance, notice what types of moves they follow well and any skills they haven't developed yet.

This will tell you the level and types of moves you can dance well together so you can curate a dance that you'll both enjoy.

Dance to your Partner’s Ability ⚖️

Start with basic steps and if appropriate, progress to more intricate patterns. If they struggle with more advanced moves, take it down a level. The dance should feel effortless and comfortable for your partner.

If you choose moves that allow them to feel successful, they will enjoy dancing with you.