It amazes me how many bad handshakes are out there. In my last post, I talked about how a good handshake plays an important part in job interviews and first impressions. But what exactly constitutes a good or bad handshake?
A good handshake is when the webbing between the thumb and forefinger meet between the two individuals’ hands. With a firm grasp the the two individuals pump their hands up and down 2 to 3 times. That’s it. Not too complicated. And yet there are so many variations on the handshake and it always surprises me when I run into them.
Dead Fish Handshake
The one that I hate the most and that sends willies up my spine is the “dead fish” handshake. That’s when the other person doesn’t grasp onto my hand at all. It always feels strange when it happens and I’m always inclined to check for their pulse.
Finger Handshake
Another one that surprises me is when the other person only let’s me shake their fingers. It seems to be a throwback to women offering their hand to be kissed. But it’s even more confusing when this happens and I’m shaking the hand of a man. Neither men nor women should shake hands in this manner. It is just as weak as the “dead fish” handshake.
The last one that gets to me is the crushing handshake. Usually, with no surprise, this comes from a man. I suppose long ago they were told that if you shake hands with a strong grip you affirm yourself to be the alpha dog. I’m a 5 ft. woman…what exactly are you trying to prove big boy? Get over yourself. There is no need for that.
While there are many other variations and advice you might have heard in the past (have your hand be on top, cover their hand with your free hand, etc), the handshake is successful when it’s simple. Stick to the basics and you’ll do fine.
