The Handshake: 3 Things to Remember

Business is a game. In this game, there’s something called “making a first impression.” To make a good first impression, there are many things you can do, like wearing a nice suit or shaving. But the most important part of making a good first impression is handshakin. Unlike a suit or a clean haircut and shave, a good handshake can make a relationship, that later leads to a sale. But what makes a good handshake? Here are three things you need to remember.

Firm Grip

The first thing to remember when giving a good handshake is a firm grip. A firm grip shows that you’re confident in yourself and in your abilities. A handshake that’s too soft shows that you’re not confident and weak in your abilities. A handshake that’s too hard shows that you’re not considerate of other people and probably means you also haven't washed your hands since last using the bathroom.

Eye Contact

The second thing to remember when giving a good handshake is to make eye contact. Eye contact shows to someone that you are attentive to his or her presence and that the meeting is important to you. This will go far in cementing your business relationship. If you don’t make eye contact, it shows that you don’t care about the relationship or that you’re real shy. No one wants to hang out with you people.

Lean In

The final thing you need to remember when giving a good handshake is to slightly lean in with open body posture. You want to lean in just enough that it’s noticeable. This is a subtle gesture that shows you’re willing to go the extra mile for the other person. Wear your biggest smile and give a good genuine nod while they're speaking.

So there it is, you can unsubscribe, you now know how to Handshake and don't need to know Handshakin Holmes any longer.  Go and shake hands, shakers. For more networking tips, see our blog.