Mastering the Perfect Handshake: How to Make a Great First Impression in Business

Handshakes are the only acceptable physical contact for men and women in the business arena. Handshakes are the universally accepted business greeting, and you are judged by the quality of the handshake. Here are some tips for you to give an acceptable and impressive handshake.

A good handshake:
Keep the fingers together with the thumb up and open.
Slide your hand into the other person's so that each person's web of skin between thumb and forefingers touches the other's.
Squeeze firmly.

A proper handshake:
Is firm but not bone-crushing.
Lasts about 3 seconds.
May be "pumped" once or twice from the elbow.
Is released after the shake, even if the introduction continues.
Includes good eye contact with the other person.

Extend a hand when:
Meeting someone for the first time.
Meeting someone you haven't seen for a while.
Greeting your host/hostess.
Greeting guests.
Saying goodbye to people at a gathering.
Someone else extends a hand.

Handshaking Tips:
Avoid giving a cold, wet handshake by keeping your drink in the left hand.
If your hands tend to be clammy, spray them with antiperspirant at least once a day.

Well, I hope this is very much useful in everyday life.

Hi Naveed,

It's really a good article. You know, when I interview people, after the interview or after completion of joining formalities, I always welcome them to my organization with a firm handshake. But to be very frank, many times people have hesitations when a girl takes initiative, and I feel very guilty that in this modern era, people are still so narrow-minded. A firm handshake always gives an indication of how confident and smart you are.

Once again, nice to have this info from you. Keep it up.

Regards,
Mona