How to Shake Hands in an Interview

Handshakes say a lot about people. Particularly in job interviews.

What does your handshake say?

Do you only let the other person have a couple of your fingers? This shows you're timid and a little wary. If, on the other hand (pardon the unavoidable pun), someone only offers you a few of his or her fingers, it's a pretty safe bet that s/he is giving you more fingers than s/he is comfortable with.

Do you have a weak handshake? Soft, weak handshakes indicate soft, weak personalities and a lack of confidence. That's usually a bad thing to show in an interview.

Do you have a vice grip? Some try to avoid weak handshakes by going to the other extreme - they squeeze like they're trying to break the other person's hand. That's called overcompensation - and it's not a good trait to show in interviews.

So what's the best way to shake hands for a job interview?

Extend your hand first. This shows you genuinely want to form a bond with the other person. It's the first step toward building rapport with the hiring manager. Waiting for the other person to raise a hand before extending your own shows you're a follower, rather than a leader. It also shows you lack professional etiquette.

Palm vertical. Psychologically, if you shake with your palm up, you are in the submissive position. If you shake with your palm down, you are setting the hiring manager up as the submissive one. Neither position will help you build instant rapport. Shaking with your palm vertical instantly sets up a collaborative atmosphere.

Join webs. When the web between your index finger and thumb are secure against the same web of the other person, you are showing confidence and honesty. It shows you're not afraid to speak with the hiring manager. It also leads to...

A firm handshake. Firm - not vice-like. Go too hard and it will seem like you're trying to exert dominance; too weak and you'll seem weak. Go for a nice, firm, middle-of-the-road handshake instead. Remember that it's okay to give a tad too much pressure, so when in doubt, add just a touch of muscle.

Speak and make eye contact while shaking hands. This shows you're comfortable with the greeting ritual and with the person you're meeting. End the handshake, though, just before the end of the introductions.

IN A NUTSHELL: In interviews, be the first to extend your hand for the shake. Keep your palm vertical, join webs, shake firmly, and continue to make eye contact and speak while joined.