How to Shake Hands

Shaking hands is a complex process that requires making eye contact, smiling, and talking at the same time you are shaking hands. It is an important form of non-verbal communication, especially in business. While in some cultures, people bow, kiss, or pat each other on the back, shaking hands is the acceptable form of courteous greeting in most business settings. It's important that you know how and when to shake hands. A good handshake is a way of showing courtesy and respect.  A bad handshake can make a bad, and perhaps lasting, first impression.

You should extend your handshake when:

• first meeting someone
• leaving a business meeting
• seeing someone you’ve met before, as a gesture of friendship
• whenever someone extends a hand to shake yours.

If someone offers a limp handshake or looks like he or she doesn't want to shake hands with you, be gracious and don’t force the issue. Try not to call attention to the situation.

Here’s how to shake hands:

1. Begin with your fingers together and your thumbs up.
2. Make the flesh of your hand (between your thumb and index finger) meet the same fleshy area on the other person. Never offer just the fingertips. This is a weak, limp handshake.
3. It’s okay to squeeze the other person’s hand, but not too hard. Try to match the same degree of pressure the other person gives.
4. After about two or three shakes, stop. Your handshake should not continue through the entire introduction. Remember to maintain eye contact and conversation.