Hi - sorry for late reply.
Raising the hand to the shoulder is generally taken as a signal to the follower preceding a turn (or a spin if the hand is flattened).
It also helps lead the turn.
I wonder if the First Move might parallel the evolution of the Yoyo,
ending with the man stepping forwards into the space the lady started from, so you both end up changing sides ? That would open up the Mambo/Manhattan options !
(Yes, sorry I'm a Taxi not a beginner ...)
Another tip that might help:
on the one occasion I have danced as a 'follower' (lady) (it was Xmas ...),
I realised that the lady has no idea what the man wants her to do at first.
As a 'leader', I have adopted the unorthodox practice of moving my right hand out from my side, by the width of her hips, as I step back.
Just enough to imply 'you are coming here' - not out horizontally at waist-height - that's a different move - the Manspin !
That subtle visual cue, with a straight (not turning her) pull, generally brings her straight forward hip-to-hip. It also subconsciously readies her for the hand-to-hip contact, which can come as a surprise.
Cheating really, but it works for me !
Also I find that repeating Yoyo, Basket and First Move in any order helps build up a consistent rhythm : In - Twist - Untwist - Out : because all 3 moves are quite similar to that extent.
HTH !
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