National Handshake Day: What Message Does Your Handshake Deliver?

National Handshake Day is June 27 this year; it is the perfect opportunity to get “hands on” with your handshake knowledge.

There are different schools of thought regarding the history of the handshake. For History.com, Evan Andrews writes, “One of the earliest depictions of a handshake is found in a ninth century B.C. relief.” Andrews goes on to say, “One popular theory is that the gesture began as a way of conveying peaceful intentions.” Others believe it was “a symbol of good faith when making an oath or promise.”

Research from Harvard Business School delves deeper into the outcome of shaking hands in business negotiations (hint: shaking hands benefits both parties).

Another study found a handshake leads to the other person viewing you in a more positive light.

Characteristics of the Perfect Handshake:

• • Firm, but not aggressive grip that engages the entire hand.
  • Fingers remain together, rather than wide and spread up the arm.
  • Shake from the elbow, engaging the arm, rather than only the wrist.
  • Smile, greet and make eye contact while delivering the handshake.

Handshake mistakes to avoid:

The Politician

Unless you already have a relationship established, skip a double-fisted grip and leave it to the politicians campaigning for your vote. This handshake is appropriate to share with close family, good friends and to show your respect and condolences at a funeral.

The Knuckle Knock

Bumping knuckles is common on the little league soccer field between coach and athlete, but not at a business meeting. Howie Mandell is quite fond of the gesture for having an aversion to germs, but it won’t speak well of someone interviewing for a job or meeting a potential client at a networking event.

The Clammy Fish

A limp, weak handshake sends a message of insecurity and is a definite detriment when it comes to a gracious greeting. Author Arlin Cuncic writes: “A limp handshake signals to the other person that you are nervous, uncertain, or uninvolved.”

The Lobster Claw

A clinched, painful grip signals you are angry, combative, disengaged or antisocial. There is a definitive distinction between a firm and an overly aggressive exchange. It would be in your best interest to learn the difference.

A commonly asked question is how to handle a sweaty palm. While wiping your hands before a handshake is helpful, you can’t walk around with a tissue or handkerchief in your hand. Try a light spray of antiperspirant or research hand lotions that block perspiration. If you have a serious condition, seek the help of your doctor for their suggestions.

Do you have a handshake pet peeve? Share it on my Facebook page or Tweet me at @dianegottsman.

You may also like 9 Networking Tips to Communicate With Confidence. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow Diane on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.