Handshake
Handshake
Handshake
There are numerous opinions on what a handshake can tell you about someone. Many are
floating around the web and in literature. The truth is somewhere between the various opinions.
Some literature will say there is no correlation between a handshake and character of an
individual. They will offer proof that it is a learned behavior and once you learn it, you think it is
the right and only way to do it.
If that is true then what of all the science about body language. Has that now been proved
untrue as well?
On the other hand, does a certain kind of handshake necessarily always mean we are or are not
a certain type of person? Does the firmness take into consideration the weakness from arthritis?
What is for certain and what really matters, people will judge you by your handshake! There is
an etiquette for shaking hands that needs to be followed to advance your career.
The Superior
If offered first palm down, it indicates superiority. It is the body language of a controlling
person.
The Lesser
If offered first, palm up, it could indicate humility and being there to serve.
The Finger Cruncher
Rather than grasping across the palm, the fingers are grasped and crushed. It can be painful. The
person who does the finger cruncher will say they cant judge their strength but if you watch, they
will not shake a woman's hands the same way. It is almost as if it is sport to give pain.
The Bone Cruncher
Much like the finger cruncher, the same vice like grip is around the hand.
The Palm Pincher
This is usually from a woman, and only a few fingers and thumb grasp the palm for the shake.
The Twister
This may start off as a normal shake but ends up with one twisting and putting the other on top.
Sometimes it is incorporated with a pull in. It speaks of a controlling personality.
The Dead Fish
This is a cold, sometimes wet, unemotional shaking of hands. It is the definition of apathy.
Mastering the standard handshake can help you progress in your career. Dont get hung up on
what it all means unless it is what it could mean about you and the personality youre projecting.
If others judge you, may your handshake improve the impression you leave.
Sweaty Palms:
When you release your grip, pause briefly before continuing the conversation. If you believe
your hands became sweaty from the palm exchange you should never rub them off on your pants
or suit jacket. The other person will think you believe they have sweaty palms and feel offended.
Instead, if your palms get sweaty try touching things randomly as you walk around the office or
restaurant. For example, you're in the hot seat for an interview. You shake your potential new
boss's hand and it's just wet as a dog. Keep that smile pearly white and say how excited you are
to meet them. As you sit down, grasp the armrest of the chair and let some of the sweat soak into
the upholstery. You can also try putting your hands on your kneecaps and lean forward as-if you
were very intrigued with every word they had to say. Then, slowly let your hands rub themselves
off your pant legs.
Get a grip.
Limp, lifeless handshakes tend to communicate timidity, passivity or intimidation. The "limp
fish" and "barely touching" handshakes project a sense of distance and a "don't touch me"
attitude, says Daniels. It's hardly welcoming and no one, including women, is exempt from this
rule.