What Happened to The Handshake

Can your handshake really make a difference? The answer is a resounding YES! Whether you are a seasoned professional meeting with potential new business colleagues or a student at your first interview, the manner in which you greet others matters. A strong handshake coupled with good eye contact and a proper greeting will create an initial positive impression. A weak handshake, on the other hand, is perceived as a sign of weakness. nnHere are a few simple handshake tips:nn1. At the beginning of your meeting, stand tall, extend your hand, smile, look the person in the eye, shake his or her hand fully and firmly, and say, “Hello Mr. Smith, Randi Lewis. Nice to meet you.” n2. If you are a novice interviewer, practice with someone else until you get it right. n3. The handshake should last for about two or three pumps. n4. Maintain eye contact and smile throughout the handshake. n5. Shake hands firmly. If you have a strong handshake, your interviewer is likely to form the immediate impression that you are confident and invested in the interview. This sets the tone for the interview and the rest will be up to you. n6. At the end of the interview, stand up, approach your interviewer, extend your hand, shake firmly while maintaining eye contact and say something like, “Thank you, Mr. Smith, for meeting with me. I enjoyed our conversation.”nnFor more information about the importance of handshakes, contact Randi Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, at 410.602.2500 or rlewis@resumeboutique.com. © Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.nn