What do you think is important in making a good first impression? For many of us, a warm smile, a stylish and appropriate outfit, or a confident voice may be some of the first things that come to mind. But what about a strong handshake? We are all a little guilty of not putting much thought into it–after all, all it is a quick shake of the hand for 5 seconds tops (if you’re holding for longer, you’re probably doing something wrong–but more on that later).
A handshake can hold a lot more power than you may think, so don’t be too quick to brush it off. People are forming opinions and impressions about you in those very few seconds, so look through these rules to be sure you are making the most of your handshake and emitting confidence.
Be Prepared
If you are walking into an event where you know you will be shaking someone’s hand, be sure that your hand is free to avoid any last minute fumbling (or worse–dropping). Walking into your interview, put your portfolio in your left hand. Same goes for if you are at an event and holding a drink–especially since you don’t want to greet someone with an icy-cold hand.
If there are other elements that may affect your handshake, such as dry or clammy hands, take precautions to ensure your hands are in good shape. These all can play a factor in how you are perceived by the other person receiving the handshake, so be sure to put your best hand forward!
It’s All in the Formation
It may seem silly to analyze the formation of your handshake, but going over these guidelines may help you realize you can improve or change something as you reach out to shake someone’s hand.
Follow these rules: as you reach your hand forward, have your hand flat and perpendicular to the floor. A good way to ensure this is to have your thumb facing directly to the ceiling. You want web to web (as in the webbing between your thumb and pointer finger) contact, so find that spot on the other person’s hand and wrap your hand around theirs. Firmly grasp their hand, and pump up and down about two to three times.
Don’t Forget Your Face
We may be focusing on what your hands are doing, but don’t neglect two other major factors in making a great first impression: eye contact and a smile. Be sure to look the person you are meeting in the eye, and don’t forget–a thousand watt smile is the perfect complement to a strong handshake!
Handshakes to Avoid
Now that you know what makes a strong handshake, be sure to avoid these handshakes, which will just make the wrong type of impression.
- The Crusher
It’s pretty much guaranteed that if you squeeze someone’s hand to the point of a necessary hospital trip, you aren’t exactly making a favorable first impression. This isn’t a strength competition, so don’t go overboard with your grip. Find the right balance between bone-breaking body building force. - The Dead Fish
Just as you don’t want to crush your partner’s hand, you don’t want to be too gentle with the grip. A weak grip can be a sign of lack of confidence, so be sure that there is some sort of power in your grip. - The Touch and Go
An important part of a good handshake is (drumroll, please!)…actually doing a handshake. Don’t just barely graze the tips of their fingers for a millisecond, or do one awkward pump. Be sure to stay for around three seconds to establish a good connection with your partner. - The Lingerer
On the opposite end of the spectrum, you don’t want to overstay your welcome. Shaking the person’s hand for any more than five seconds will just start to make them feel uncomfortable, not more connected to you.
Don’t let a bad handshake make or break the impression you make on someone. Follow these tips for the perfect handshake, and be sure to do a little practice with a friend or family member before a big interview or event.
