by Dori Kenny

Created on: October 26, 2008

When you introduce yourself to someone you are making a first impression. So is your handshake. Your handshake has just determined who you are to your new boss, neighbor, or future father-in-law. What does your handshake say about you? Are you a good match for the job, are you friendly, or are you really the man I want my daughter to marry? In my opinion, your handshake is just like your signature. You can play with it a little to give it some flair or keep it simple. Think of how you sign a greeting card compared to a legal document. It's the same with your handshake. If you saw an associate at a wedding would you shake his hand the same way as you would in the conference room? Not likely.

My Father always told me to offer a firm handshake. And with this advice, I have come to expect a firm handshake in return. The firm handshake-a sign of integrity, strength, and conviction. Now this is a person with presence, who is well put together and confident. You immediately know this is a person you can count on. Handshake wise they are a ten. As you get to know this person-either personally and professionally-they will either stay a ten or go down hill from the handshake.

The opposite handshake is the wet fish handshake. Ugh! Just like holding a wet fish-cold, clammy, nervous. You just want to wipe your hand off on the side of your pants and say goodbye. This person has very little confidence, is nervous to meet you, and is fearful of what is going to happen in the next few minutes. Be it a date or a business meeting this introduction has nowhere to go but up. This handshake has scored a zero so this person really needs to impress you to move up the personality ladder.

There is emotion conveyed in your handshake as well. Perhaps I'm offering you my condolences. Although my handshake is firm, I'm also cupping your hand in both of mine. Like a handshake hug. I want to make you feel secure and safe in some way. Maybe you are handing out cigars st the office to celebrate the birth of your new baby. This handshake could start with a high five slap and then go in to a traditional handshake. All friendly and excited and full of personality.

Whatever the occasion, a handshake is a great way to express yourself and give somebody the chance to get to know you. Plus, you'll be learning about them too. So step up and extend your hand, you don't have to wrestle me to the ground or anything, just shake my hand.

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