Does Handshake tell much about you?

Handshake is a universal way of greeting each other.  However, have you ever had someone give you a French greeting of kissing your right cheek first (mostly) then your left cheek?  Have someone given you a buddy hug or hi-five as a form of greeting?  The fact is, besides a proper handshake, all these are not appropriate in a business environment.

Pic Cr:The definitive book of
Body Language

As an Image Consultant, I often stress on setting a good first impression.  However, this does not mean on Appearance only.  You could ruin that first impression with your Behavior!  I remember during my flying days as a cabin crew where handshake was a must before every flight, among the thousands of handshakes I made in those few years, it exposed me to several interesting or even funny ways of shaking hands.



1)      Wet fish handshake -     It is not uncommon for someone to have

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Institute

       sweaty palms.  However, if you are the one with sweaty palms, rub it discreetly against your skirt or pants before shaking anyone’s hand.  If someone with sweaty palms shook your hands, rest your palm on your skirt or pants to have it soak off discreetly!  Be considerate to others

       and never embarrass them!  Have you ever seen people who danced with gloves too? :p

2)      Limp handshake -            This is not just handshakes that are soft but

        this is where you experience only your fingernails are being held.(!??!)  They don’t even bother to lock their palms into yours!  I view this as a form of insincerity!



Pic Cr:The definitive book of
Body Language

3)      Bone crusher -                  Such handshakes are so strong that you can almost hear your bones crack!  You are hurt and will remember this person for the wrong reason.  Of course, you get frightened each time you know you are going to shake that person’s hand again!  Avoid such poor etiquette, neglecting the feelings of others!  Always match the strength of your handshake with the other person.



Although there are other old wives’ belief such as the stronger and firmer your handshake, the more decisive you are, there are indeed other considerations when extending your hand:

1)      Take caution when shaking hands with muslim women as they may be strict in observing their religious practice, especially if you are a male.

2)      Avoid shaking hands with monks or nuns.

In today’s modern context, it’s ok for a female to extend her hand first.  Whoever extends the hand, make sure you lock your hands all the way in and make it a firm one, 2-3 pumps, eye contact and smile will complete that good first impression!


About the Author : Sherrine Teoh is the Principal Image Consultant with Image and You Consultancy.  She runs regular training for corporations and institutions as well as Individual Consultations on Personal Grooming, Dressing and Social Etiquette.  She is also Mrs Singapore Queen of Hope 2012, Mrs Asia International All Nations 2012 and Mrs Photogenic 2012 (Mrs Asia International).