Every person has their own preferences in learning styles but here are some handy things to consider when looking for a dance teacher:
1. WORD OF MOUTH: A talented and naturally gifted dance teacher will have loyal students who will only have good things to say about them.
2. DANCE ABILITY: Depending on the style of dance you are learning, it may be helpful to have a teacher who is good at what they do. Although a great dancer doesn't necessarily mean a good teacher, there are certain things and tweaks in technique that can only be modelled from a great dancer.
3. CREDITS: If you are looking to go into a specific career path in dance, a teacher with a background in that area can guide you and advise you appropriately.
4. PATIENCE: Especially important when beginning.
5. CARE: A teacher that cares about you and their class really shows in the progress of students, as opposed to a dancer doing it just for the money.
6. CONNECTION: It helps if you like your teacher, of course sometimes like parents a strict teacher is sometimes the best one.
7. ENVIRONMENT: Do you learn best in a strict, professional environment or a more relaxed class atmosphere?
It's also important not to be put off on occasions when the teacher may be right for you. Sometimes a very good dance teacher will push students and teach hard routines or techniques. Though these may not be the most enjoyable, what you learn from these teachers can help you the most.
At the end of the day you are the best person to judge the right dance class and dance teacher for you, don't be afraid to try a few though!