The Business of Handshakes ….saying so much without words

A handshake says so much about you, without a word being spoken. Do you remember your last handshake? Was it firm or soft? The pace, was it fast or slow? Was there a clasping action or was it one-handed? How about the feel, was it clammy or dry? Was the persons hand warm or cold? Did your full hand engage or was it just fingertips? Was the other person happy to respond or were they hesitant? Did they smile? Did you smile?

The list of questions could go on and on. There are entire books written about handshaking. Handshaking is important here in the United States and it is considered the only appropriate physical contact made during business exchanges. As for the international scene, handshaking is very important as well. Handshaking is so important that it makes national news. Have you noticed our President’s handshake being reviewed by so many news reporters and commentators? It is a big deal. Why? Because a handshake is not just two hands meeting. It reveals so much more.

How Revealing?

A firm handshake reveals confidence. An overpowering handshake reveals dominance. A weak handshake reveals uncertainty. A clasping, clam shell action is not a good business technique but can be very comforting when someone needs consoling. A clammy hand might reveal nervousness; or it could be just a physical norm for some people. That being said, make sure your hands are dry. Analyze your handshake.

Eye Contact?

Did the last person you shake hands with give you great eye contact? Eye contact is the most remembered aspect of an introduction. Be sure when you shake hands that your eyes focus on the other person’s eye area. It makes a lasting, positive impression.

Facial Expressions

When you shake someone’s hand, depending on the occasion, a smile goes a long way. In most instances, a smile is appropriate. A blank stare is never a good facial expression, and an overly robust expression could be over the top. Take a look in a mirror to see if the expression you want to convey is really coming through.

How to

In the United States, our handshake is done standing up, shoulders squared to the other person’s shoulders. Give a great handshake by using your right hand with a firm clasping action, two shakes from the elbow area, giving great eye contact and a modest smile.

Remember the first person to extend their hand in a handshake is the leader. Be a leader!

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