Growing up, I'm pretty sure all of us were told about the importance of a good firm handshake and how much that tells the person you're shaking with. Doesn't seem to be much value placed on it anymore because lots of people that I've shaken hands with in previous months- from sales people to colleagues to executives to people conducting interviews have that limp fish handshake that leaves you thinking this person needs to be gored by the luchadeer.
Now I'm not advocating the 'I'm an alpha male' handshake crush of doom, but put a little muscle behind it.
Thoughts?
Do Handshakes Matter Anymore
Whether they matter or not I still like to keep the tradition going! Plus a lot of my job interviews begin with a firm friendly handshake so they're definitely still.. practiced... in the UK. I think they're just not as commonplace anymore because of the new generation and the rise of social awkwardness amongst society, lessening the use of physical contact for greetings. I mean I'm apart of that ever-growing issue, but fortunately I've still grown adept to giving a solid handshake.
Not to mention that a handshake is probably enough to file a lawsuit for sexual harassment these days in the work place as well. /hyperbole
I tend to use handshakes as a sign of respect when parting ways with somebody. Mine is not firm however.
Man, handshakes are a joke sometimes. The last job interview I went to, the guy extended his hand and I squeezed it like you're supposed to do. What did he do? Nothing. He just stood there with his hand open. That was a really half-assed effort. How the hell do you fuck up a handshake?
Yes they matter. I do trade shows now and then, and sales for a construction company. When I'm meeting someone, and before I leave (or before they leave the booth at a trade show) its always expected. When you sign a contract with someone it's especially important. IMO a handshake shows respect, and confidence, from both parties. Its amazing how fast you can judge someone from a weak handshake. It doesn't have to be bone crushing, but a polite, firm handshake is very important.
Firm handshakes are critical for men to master. First impressions are everything. Every male I know with weak handshakes also have weak personalities, unconfident, and physically unfit. I'm not saying that if your can't provide a firm handshake you're a bad person. However, every instance in which I have been given a half-assed handshake has been given by weaker individuals.
Handshakes are part of body language, something which is more important than spoken language when meeting people face to face. My handshakes are good, firm, sometimes even have a little swing in them if it's for an especially good occasion like striking a very good trade in which case I also have a smile on my lips. When some joe gives me a sloppy weak limp-wristed handshake the alpha male genes in me see a little pup that just flopped over on his back and to show me his vulnerable underside as to say "You are the boss".
I consider handshakes to be like that rise a glass and smile after taking a shot deal after a toast while out drinking, I am a master of those. Could go on forever about body language, will just say - observe yourself as you go about your normal life and interact with people, and how they interact with you. Good communication will get you places in business and pleasure.
I don't find shaking someone's hand because it's the first time I met them really means anything. However, if we're shaking on a deal or something, it damn well fucking better.
Yes, having a good, firm handshake is important. It is also important not to overdo it. When I shake a dudes hand and he is trying to grind my knuckles to powder, it immediately makes me think he is insecure and is trying to over-compensate. It is him trying to assert his dominance through muscled force. When they do it, there is often also a slightly crazy gleam in their eye that says, "YEAH, HOW YOU LIKE DAT?"
So the crushing handshake shows exactly the same thing as the limp and fishy handshake. It shows weakness. The limp and fishy shows physical weakness that is unaware of it, but the crushing handshake shows a mental weakness that is trying to make up for it with force.
Find the middle ground and just be firm and steady.
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