It is said that body language plays a great portion in determining the first impression. It beings with the handshake. It should neither be a "dead fish" nor a "bonecrusher grip". It should be a firm handshake. But how firm?
I was introduced to two ladies this evening. As a friendly gesture, I extended my hand out for a handshake. Half way through my "firm handshake", I decided to hold back a lil'... maybe use like 40% of the normal strength. I didn't wanna "crush" their delicate hands, no I didn't wanna "hurt" them! I guess its natural that some ladies have weaker handshakes, perhaps its in line with their demure, executive image. Ironically, I don't find them "insincere", but rather its the subsequent eye contacts that make a whole lot different. But what kinda of impression will I give them with an initial weak handshake? Like not very sincere hor? heh heh. How huh?
Perhaps, depending on the size of the hand and build of the person, we can adjust our strength of handshake. In fact, a firm handshake is more than just the strength. It is characterized by the vigor, duration, eye contact and completeness of grip as well.
So what makes a good handshake? This is what I found out:
1. Your hands are clean and adequately manicured.
2. Your hands are warm and reasonably free of perspiration. (There are a number of ways to ensure this, including washing hands in warm water at the interview site, holding one's hand close to the cheek for a few seconds, and even applying a little talcum powder.) If your hands sweat a lot, try to inconspicuously wipe them against the seat cushion upon rising to shake hands.
3. The handshake itself is executed professionally and politely, with a firm grip and a warm smile.
Yes, don't forget that million-dollar smile!
I was introduced to two ladies this evening. As a friendly gesture, I extended my hand out for a handshake. Half way through my "firm handshake", I decided to hold back a lil'... maybe use like 40% of the normal strength. I didn't wanna "crush" their delicate hands, no I didn't wanna "hurt" them! I guess its natural that some ladies have weaker handshakes, perhaps its in line with their demure, executive image. Ironically, I don't find them "insincere", but rather its the subsequent eye contacts that make a whole lot different. But what kinda of impression will I give them with an initial weak handshake? Like not very sincere hor? heh heh. How huh?
Perhaps, depending on the size of the hand and build of the person, we can adjust our strength of handshake. In fact, a firm handshake is more than just the strength. It is characterized by the vigor, duration, eye contact and completeness of grip as well.
So what makes a good handshake? This is what I found out:
1. Your hands are clean and adequately manicured.
2. Your hands are warm and reasonably free of perspiration. (There are a number of ways to ensure this, including washing hands in warm water at the interview site, holding one's hand close to the cheek for a few seconds, and even applying a little talcum powder.) If your hands sweat a lot, try to inconspicuously wipe them against the seat cushion upon rising to shake hands.
3. The handshake itself is executed professionally and politely, with a firm grip and a warm smile.
Yes, don't forget that million-dollar smile!
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