We all know the importance of a great first impression. In only seconds of a meeting, people attain various information regarding us. They notice our face, hair, clothing, body size, posture, demeanor as well as the sound in our voice. It’s an essential time because there is no second possiblity to make a good first impression.
Then it happens … the handshake.
I remember when i took a communications class in a nearby church. The instructor had 30+ attendees fall into line single file. The instructions were to look him inside the eye and shake his hand. I used to be confident I knew how to properly shake hands.
Following your last person shook the instructor’s hand, he asked, “Tell me what you seriously considered my handshake. Maybe it was a great handshake or a bad handshake?” I liked his handshake. It was a firm grip like mine. His handshake confirmed to me I knew how you can shake hands. I said, exactly, “good handshake.”
The real key said something which completely took me by surprise.
He was quoted saying the main reason everybody liked his handshake was simple. He mirrored ours. In the event the handshake was firm, his was firm. When it was a light touch, his would be a light touch. Should they used their opposite to grasp his, his contrary grasped theirs. He explained this handshake technique creates an immediate good impression and likeability.
Likeability?
Yes. It’s just like the way we feel when we meet an unfamiliar person and discover we share the same name. Or while in conversation with a stranger, we learn we share a mutual friend. We magically like this person. This is why I call it the Magical Handshake.
From here 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 firm grip, mirror a strong grip. If you’re offered a soft grip, mirror a soft grip. Be sure you mirror the shake too. It’s all about the grip and shake.
The only real exception happens when someone gives you a handshake making use of their palm facing down. As you shake hands, they’ve the upper-hand and are in control. They dominate. This is what’s called an aggressive handshake.
When offered a hostile handshake, respond by providing them a Double-Handed handshake having a wee turn. Start by having your palms slightly upwards, grasping their hand with both of yours. Then, straighten their handshake vertically with a wee turn as you’re shaking. This communicates in their mind, “we are equal.”
Next time you need to produce a good first impression, provide the Magical Handshake a go. Take action once you meet and greet people. It’s a straightforward, surefire approach to boost 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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