Handshake, What It Says About You
Greetings!
I have been speaking at numerous conferences and conventions over the past several months. While introducing myself to the attendees and networking at various events, I am always amazed at the poor handshakes I receive (from men and women alike).
When approaching someone to introduce myself, I offer play a game of stating to myself what type of handshake they will deliver. I must say I have gotten pretty good at it, but sorry that I receive more poor handshakes than professional ones.
In a study that was published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, they found there is a substantial relation between the features that characterize a firm handshake (strength, vigor, duration, eye contact, and completeness of grip) and a favorable first impression.
Just yesterday I spoke to a group of women on the topic of Breaking the Glass Ceiling and Seeing a New View and had them stand and shake hands with each other. I too, was engaging in the activity with them. I then explained the performance and importance of a professional handshake. One woman came up to me after the session and told me she had never known how to correctly perform a handshake and thanked me very much.
When you meet someone and they have a poor handshake, what is your reaction or perception of them?
Have a great weekend!
P. S. I will be traveling for the next several weeks and my blog will be sent again on September 21st.
Nyda