Some Thoughts On Leading
10.21.07

In working with students and our peers in the community, a constant theme of making better leaders echoes the land. In many instances, the lead is left as something to be learned after the footwork is figured out. This is a mistake and allows the new leader to be put into a position of failing before he even knows what is being asked of him.
 
One of the things we stress in our class is that the count of "One" belongs to the leader. Using an analogy from football, any play starts with a snap of the ball off the ground into the hands of the quarterback. A bad snap because the quarterback was not ready or ill-prepared means very little chance of success in that play. (For those of you not football oriented, just insert any activity that requires a start to the action that makes the activity rewarding...)
 
How is the follower to know where she is going during any one particular pattern. If the leader gives a definitive lead that includes body motion and shape in respect to her position, the follow will know that she will be passing on the right or left or staying on the same side of the leader. Lack of a clear lead makes her guess as to the leader's intentions. Her odds of 1 in 3 choices (pass left, pass right or not pass) doesn't give you the best odds of seeing a successful play made in that sequence.
 
At the same time, leading throughout a pattern isn't necessary. We expect the follower to know what she needs to do if the lead is clear. After the count of "One" a clear lead will allow the leader to focus on dancing or follow up leads as the follower interprets the lead and does her part in that play. In other words; "GUYS! Give a good "One" and you can relax and think about the next "play."
 
One more item and this is directed at the ladies; DON'T HELP!
 
So many followers in this area have become so used to interpreting a vague lead that they make the guess before the leader gets a chance to do his part. In helping him get through this, you are creating an addict who no longer even tries to lead. Give him the chance and many leaders will respond by getting back into the game. In fixing his issue, you are creating a habit of your own in anticipating what will happen next. Once a leader learns to lead or you begin lining up with a truly versed leader, you will experience major problems with an inability to really follow what is being signaled to you. Just don't go there and you will help so many other followers by training a leader the right way...make him lead!