Getting The Upper Hand – Prescriptions for A Great Handshake
The knucke cruncher. The cold fish. The limp wrist. The pincher. At one time or another, you have more than likely experienced handshakes like these – handshakes that could benefit from an all-hands-on-deck makeover. With this in mind, here are some quick tips to make sure you’ll have the “upper hand” when shaking hands:
Do:
Extend your right hand enthusiastically outward.
Have a 45% bend at the elbow.
Shake with your whole hand, (not just your finger tips).
Use a medium-firm grip — not too hard, nor too soft.
Get on the Web (see below for details).
Keep your fingers together.
Cup or round your hand slightly.
Hold the grip for one to two seconds.
Position your thumb so that it touches the back of the other person’s hand.
Make sure your hand is neither on top or on the bottom, but rather keep your wrist positioned vertical to the floor.
Make eye contact.
Smile.
Getting On The Web
One test for a good handshake is to see if you can “get on the web.” A great handshake happens when your web, or the loose, fleshy skin located between your index finger and thumb, connects with theirs.
How to Give a Hand Hug
A hand hug is a modified handshake that uses both hands. To give a hand hug:
1) Engage in a normal handshake.
2) With your right hand in a proper grip, firmly cup the back of the other person’s hand with your left hand. It’s almost as if you are using both of your hands to create a “hand-sandwich.”
People giving a hand hug are often perceived as being caring and compassionate. The hand hug can be used to comfort an individual or it can be used when delivering hard to hear news. Similarly it can be used as a sincere gesture when delivering praise or when expressing gratitude.
Take the handshake challenge.
Select 5 individuals who you know will provide you with honest feedback. Shake hands with them and ask them, “If you could change one thing about my handshake, what would it be?” Make the changes, test it again, and receive additional feedback.
Dr. Susanne Gaddis
The Communications Doctor
web: www.CommunicationsDoctor.com
email: gaddis@CommunicationsDoctor.com
phone: 919-933-3237
