5 Things That Make You a Bad Lead (and How to Avoid Them)

I’m not a perfect social dancer. Here’s a quick personal experience:

One day, during a congress in New York, I was dancing with an amazing follower.Everything was perfect — the energy, the show we did with Latin Soul was perfect, and the DJ playing at that moment was DJ La Conga, one of my favorites.I was so happy and excited that night... maybe a little too excited.

I started going all out, throwing a lot into the dance — and guess what?I accidentally hit my partner in the nose... with my elbow! 🤠 Even my elbow hurt 😭, so I was convinced we were heading to the hospital.I immediately stopped dancing, ran to get ice for her, and apologized like 20 times😭.

Thankfully, there was no blood (thank God😫), and she was incredibly understanding — she didn’t make me feel bad, even though she could have.

That happened over a year ago, and funny enough, just yesterday, I ran into her at a social in D.C.We danced again, and later she reminded me of that “traumatic” moment in our DMs — and we laughed about it!

So no, I’m not a perfect social dancer.

But I’ve made enough mistakes to come up with some recommendations for you!

1. Skipping Basic Hygiene

Dancing usually happens after work, dinner, or even after a sweaty class.Plan ahead: always bring deodorant, toothpaste, and your favorite perfume.

Important: You often don’t notice your own body smell, but others do.Never trust your own nose.

✔️ Apply deodorant again

✔️ Brush your teeth

✔️ Spray a little perfume

✔️ Bring an extra shirt

2. Don't listen to your partner

Adapt to your partner. If you throw your hardest combinations at every follower, many will walk away feeling frustrated (and you might hit somebody in the nose)

99% of followers would rather dance with someone who makes them laugh and feel good than someone who tries to show off. Keep it fun, simple, and connected. And yes, that 99% I made that up... I dont have proofs but also I dont have doubts about this one.

3. Ignoring the Music

Relax at the beginning of a song.

Start slow:

• Two basics

• One cross-body lead

• Another basic
  

Then, build up once the melody kicks in. Don’t overwhelm your partner from the first beat.Follow the music’s energy and give them space to breathe.

4. Not Saying Goodbye

Just a head nod at the end of the dance isn’t enough.

Take two seconds to say “Thank you for the dance!”A small hug, high-five, or handshake adds a nice human touch.

You just spent 4–5 minutes sharing a dance — show your appreciation.

5. Being a Solo Dancer

Shines are fun — but you’re dancing with someone.Do a few shines, watch your partner while they shine too, and return to partnerwork quickly.

If they look uncomfortable during shines, bring them back gently with a few basics.Always prioritize making your partner feel supported, not abandoned.

As leads, we carry a big responsibility. We set the tone for the dance experience.Follow these simple rules, and you’ll make every dance a great one — for you and your partner.

Remember, dancing is better when both of you are smiling! 💃🕺