Why your Handshake could be Damaging your Reputation
When it comes to making first impressions, your handshake can be a key opinion former with people that you meet for the first time. It is surprising how much importance can be place upon such a simple action, but savvy professionals and business networkers understand the importance of the right handshake.
As pointed out on the Efficiency Coach website,handshakeswere once used as an indication that somebody, “came in peace and did not have a weapon”. The physically disarming nature of a handshake was intended to be entirely placatory, and was intended to build relationships and avoid conflict. In the modern world, the handshake is used much more widely, but in business terms is intended to be a sign of trust and goodwill.
How could a handshake damage your reputation?
Your handshake will offer a strong first impression. Consciously, or otherwise, business acquaintances and clients will inform an opinion about you based on your handshake. A very strong handshake can be considered overbearing and aggressive. A very weak handshake could indicate indecisiveness and a lack of confidence. None of these attributes is attractive to a potential client or employer, and, as such, if you don't shake hands in the right way, you may project an impression that is unfavorable. Many recruiters, for example, will take the candidates' handshake into consideration when it comes to the suitability for the role.
Handshakes are traditionally considered a masculine thing. Indeed, in many cultures, it would still be frowned upon for a man to shake hands with a woman. The principles of a good handshake, however, apply, regardless of whether you are a man or woman.
The Art of Manliness website offers the following advice onhow to shake hands.
1. Your grip should be firm. That means that you should not squeeze the other person's hand tightly, but you should ensure that you have a solid, strong grip. A limp, lifeless handshake is very unattractive. Convention is that you would normally use one hand, but with good friends, or people that you know very well, a two-handed shake can be a sign of warmth and affection.
2. Your hands must be clean and dry. Ensure that you have washed your hands with soap and water before you enter into an environment where you will shake hands with someone.
3. Avoid sweaty hands. Washing them immediately prior should help, but if this is not possible, then quickly wipe your hands on your trousers, ideally without the other person knowing.
4. It is also critical to make eye contact with the other person when shaking hands. This maintains the idea of self-confidence and professionalism.
When to shake hands
It is unlikely that you can shake hands with people *too much*. In a business environment, when meeting people for the first time, it is customary to shake hands and when leaving such a meeting, most attendees would expect to do the same thing. Shaking hands at the start and end of a job interview is very normal, for example. In a business networking setting, shaking hands when introduced to somebody is also very common. Ensure that you announce yourself and greet the other person verbally just before you shake hands or they may be unaware of your presence. Never try and shake hands with somebody if they are engaged in conversation with someone else, as you may be left hanging, which is always embarrassing.
Be mindful of local customs too. In some cultures, shaking hands is frowned upon unless instigated by a certain person. In other locations, handshakes should be accompanied by other gestures and shaking hands with women may be considered deeply offensive. Research the local customs before you travel, and ensure that you are prepared. Adapting to regional customs is polite and will aid your professional image.
The simple handshake has the capability to help you make great new connections, but can also tarnish your image, if not handled in the right way. It is important to shake hands in the right way, at the right time and in the right places, if you are to maintain the most professional image.
