While at the NXTcomm tradeshow in Las Vegas this week, I had the opportunity to shake hands with dozens of people. The first person I shook hands with offered me a weak and clammy hand, which repulsed me. It got me thinking about this simple greeting and its importance in building and maintaining relationships.
Here is quick history lesson. It appears that people have been shaking hands since about 200 B.C. and it began as a gesture to show peaceful intent and to demonstrate that both parties held no weapons. While some cultures kiss and hug when meeting, most western cultures prefer handshakes for business purposes.
Back to the 21st century, handshakes are a normal protocol, yet there are clearly right and wrong ways to greet each other. Good eye contact is always appropriate with a solid grip. Shake too long and it becomes awkward. Never offer to shake hands and pull away; this is sure to insult the other person.
Here are a few variations on the standard right-handed handshake:
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The Business Handshake
The most appropriate handshake connects the web between your index finger and thumb firmly with the other person’s and pump two or three times. This is always appropriate.
The Politician’s Handshake
While shaking hands cover the other person’s hand with your left hand. A favorite of politicians, this should be used only with someone you know well. This two-handed shake can be considered overly aggressive or invasive while the actual intent may communicate sincerity.
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The Limp Fish Handshake
Just as it sounds; this handshake is wet, limp, and clammy. Nothing is more repulsive.
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The Old Rich Lady Handshake
This is when you offer just your fingertips, rather than your palm, and it indicates a sense of superiority. This technique is most often observed as effeminate and effete.
The Muscle Man Handshake
Yep, you know this one, too. In this scenario the culprit tries to break bones.
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The Gangster Handshake (also known as pounding)
This is fist to fist shake of rappers and street people. While it might be appropriate in the “hood”, it is not appropriate in the boardroom.
John Bradley Jackson
© Copyright 2008 All rights reserved.
P.S.
This handshaking protocol applies to Western cultures only—when in Rome, due as the Romans. For example, when in the Middle East & Arab World (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Gulf States, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Yemen, Arab Republic, Iran, and Iraq), use your right hand. The left hand is used only for bodily functions and is “unclean”.