How to Shake Hands

The handshake, it's an American tradition. We don't kiss, kiss on both cheeks, we don't bow, we simply reach out and give you a good handshake. So then, what exactly does a good handshake require? Let's chat about that. First it's always pretty clear when you are on the receiving end of a bad handshake. These are generally accompanied by limp hands, sweaty palms, a too tight grip, or someone who feels the need to use two hands and keep a hold on you so that you cannot get away.

What is the key to a good handshake?

Now that this is clear it will be easier for us to identify what I feel are the key qualities of a good American handshake. Having grown up as a shy individual I have had to do my research and step out a bit to practice meeting, greeting and handshaking with many people over the years. It is a requirement in the business world to be able to execute a perfect handshake, along with a smile, and sincerely happy eye contact with another person. You can set the tone of your relationship at this point, or you can quite literally make a totally bad impression if your handshake is feeble, fake, or communicates a fear of contact. In my opinion the handshake is a fairly good indicator of personality and ability in the workplace.

There are simple details to a truly good handshake.

The first thing that is important is to stand to greet the person who is approaching if you can. Keep a comfortable distance to respect personal space and extend your arm towards him or her. Always make eye contact. Looking someone in the eye communicates your true feelings very simply, and it will also help you to remember names better. Americans always shake with their right hands. That's the rule so don't try to change it. When you grasp the other persons hand make sure to do so snugly but without squeezing the hand too hard. Your goal is apply a quick firm pressure and then release.

When a handshake goes bad, sometimes it's funny.

Please release the person. Do not drag them closer to you or try to pull them towards someone you want them to meet. It is just not correct to do so. Never vigorously shake a persons hand as you never know if they have motion sickness. If your hand is returned to you slimy or damp resist the urge to wipe your hand on something until you are out of sight. You can warn your friends later on in the washroom to steer clear. Yes, I am being humorous here, but sometimes these situations are very funny. I once extended a handshake to a woman who obviously had a disability with her hands. I simply acted out of habit rather than really looking at her. We both laughed, but it was a good lesson to me to be aware of the entire person I am greeting.

A good handshake should last no more than 2 to 3 seconds. Body language is an interesting thing especially if you travel a lot to other countries. Asians, Europeans, and Americans all have a specific style of greeting people. I enjoy the differences but of course being an American, I love the equality of, and the strength of a good old handshake.