Shaking Hands

With the world consumed by talking about COVID-19 at the moment, shaking hands might be one thing that you are trying to avoid currently. You have probably seen the new ‘elbow greeting’ that now seems to be quite conventional in and out of the workplace. However, despite the current global health situation, shaking hands has been an important part of communication for centuries around the world and this is unlikely to change any time soon.

A handshake is sometimes used as a sign of greeting or parting, a sign of thanks, diplomatic agreement or good sportsmanship. It is used to close business deals and sometimes as a sign of affection.

It is important to know how a good handshake works, for in reality it is far more than two hands meeting.

1) Eye Contact - make sure you maintain eye contact when shaking hands

2) Use your right hand and before reaching out to shake hands ensure you are not holding anything

3) Smile - smiling will ensure the receiver maintains a warm feel

4) Match the pressure of the receiver - although generally firm shows confidence and is a good sign.

5) Take the initiative to hold out your hand to shake first. This is again a sign of confidence.

Just remember that handshaking is also a great way of spreading microbial pathogens, so make sure you wash your hands regularly as well!