The Art Of The Hand Shake

I was having a conversation recently with my nine year old son about the importance of deploying a solid handshake and how throughout life there will be thousands of times you’ll be shaking a hand at the beginning of a meeting, an interview or just simply in social situations when meeting new people. It reminded me of when I was coached up on this top a long, long time ago by one of my first mentors (shout out to AJ!) and how shaking someone's hand for the first time is a great opportunity to make a good first impression or a bad one for that matter.

I get that this sounds basic and probably not something to bring to the spotlight and for those of you that have this basic life fundamental down this article was not written for you. However, based on interviewing hundreds of people over the past several years and having shaken many hands, some tips would definitely be helpful. Especially having experienced the good, the bad and the terrible first hand (no pun intended) this would be beneficial for a lot of people.

Here are 5 practical tips and I’d recommend start with repping it out several times in a role play scenario.

1. Firm grip, not too soft, not a vice grip and definitely don’t grab the fingers.
2. Eye contact is second in terms of importance.
3. Posture is key and this starts with confidence, think square shoulders.
4. Approach can’t be too fast or to slow, best to mirror the other individual.
5. Length needs to be just right, don’t hold on too long which will come across awkward and to quick send the wrong message.

Pulling it all together; this is a basic life fundamental that really could be the difference maker between landing that next position or starting a new long-term relationship. I hope this was helpful and please leave your comments below!

Grind. For. Greatness.