Professional communication often manifests itself in the corporate realm, taking on the form of social skills. Profiling occurs within moments of getting acquainted primarily through aspects of non-verbal communication like the individual’s facial expression & composure; a fairly universal gesture is the formal handshake, the first form of physical contact between the involved parties.
A handshake is more than just a greeting; it subconsciously conveys a message about the individual’s personality and confidence level. When an introduction is made, a handshake is an important tool in making the right first impression. A handshake today serves a subliminal expression to evoke a critical gauge of confidence, trust, sophistication and mood.
A business handshake should be brief and to the point. A handshake is a form of short greeting, not a lengthy engagement. Holding on for more than three or four seconds can make other people feel uncomfortable. Avoid the urge to handshake with two hands. It is always better in business introductions to use only one hand – your right hand – for the shake. The use of two hands with strangers is seen as intrusive, and too personal. In fact, a two-handed shake is called the “politician’s shake,” because it appears artificially friendly when used on people you barely know. End the handshake after 3-4 seconds, or 2-3 pumps. In order to avoid creating an awkward moment, your shake should end before the oral introduction exchange does. Without conversation taking place during the entire handshake, it becomes too intimate, and can feel more like hand-holding.
Handshakes are dependent on scenarios and hierarchy. Hosts usually extend their handshakes first as a demonstration of hospitality; interviewees should wait for interviewers as an observation of respect for the latter. Though not a norm, some consider it proper and courteous for a man to wait for a woman to shake hands.
Before extending a hand, one should always introduce oneself first. Extending one’s hand should be part of an introduction, not a replacement for using your voice. Extending your hand without a voice greeting may make one appear nervous or overly aggressive.
A handshake should be a friendly or respectful gesture, not a show of physical strength. An uncomfortable handshake is never a pleasant experience for anyone. The idea is to connect, not be overbearing. A limp hand is never a good idea when it comes to a business handshake. Do return the grip, but do not get into a power struggle, even if the other person squeezes too hard.
Sweaty palms can put handshakes in an awkward situation. If a handshake is exchanged with a party who has sweaty palms, it is deemed impolite to follow-up by wiping off on clothing, handkerchief, or tissue. A more apt approach would be to discretely wipe them on something after the other party is out of sight, and wash them later. Similarly, wipe palms discreetly if you anticipate a handshake exchange.
