Everybody knows the significance of a great first impression. In mere seconds of a meeting, people attain an array of information about us. They notice our face, hair, clothing, bodily proportions, posture, demeanor as well as the sound of our own voice. It’s a crucial time as there is no second possiblity to make a good first impression.
This happens … the handshake.
I once took a communications class in a nearby church. The trainer had 30+ attendees line up single file. The instructions were to look him in the eye and shake his hand. I had been confident I knew the best way to properly shake hands.
After the last person shook the instructor’s hand, he asked, “Tell me what you thought about my handshake. Could it have been a good handshake or a bad handshake?” I liked his handshake. It was a firm grip like mine. His handshake confirmed in my experience I knew the best way to shake hands. I said, exactly, “good handshake.”
The real key said a thing that completely involved by surprise.
He explained the reason why everybody liked his handshake was simple. He mirrored ours. If the handshake was firm, his was firm. When it would be a light touch, his was obviously a light touch. If they used their other hand to understand his, his contrary grasped theirs. He explained this handshake technique creates an instantaneous good impression and likeability.
Likeability?
Yes. It’s just like how we feel when we meet a complete stranger and discover we share exactly the same name. Or much more conversation having a stranger, we learn we share a mutual friend. We magically that way person. This is why I call it the Magical Handshake.
From this level on, It is advisable to never, ever, shake another person’s hand. Instead, let them shake yours. Mirror their business. If you’re offered a company grip, mirror a company grip. If you’re offered a gentle grip, mirror a gentle grip. Make sure to mirror the shake too. It’s everything about the grip and shake.
The only real exception occurs when someone gives you a handshake using their palm facing down. While you shake hands, they’ve the upper-hand and therefore are in control. They dominate. This is whats called an aggressive handshake.
When offered a hostile handshake, respond giving them a Double-Handed handshake having a wee turn. Start with your palms slightly upwards, grasping their hand with both you have. Then, straighten their handshake vertically having a wee turn as you’re shaking. This communicates to them, “we are equal.”
The next time you want to create a good first impression, supply the Magical Handshake an attempt. Do it if you meet and greet people. It’s an easy, surefire way to improve your likeability factor.
Faith Faith BBE, CTM, NE. Branding Expert, Speaker and Author of Blockbuster Branding for “The Little Guy” – How to Rock What You Got: business, service, product or book. For more branding ideas visit: www.FaithFaith.net
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