How to Shake Hands After Receiving a Diploma

Graduation ceremonies date as back far as the twelfth century when universities recognized students completing a set number of classes. In early graduation ceremonies, the graduate received a diploma handwritten on sheepskin, rolled and fastened with a piece of ribbon. Today, the diploma is usually inside a leather binder for safe keeping and easy display. After receiving a diploma, the graduate shakes hands with the person who provides the diploma and perhaps other people on the platform. Read on to learn how to shake hands after receiving a diploma.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Walk across the platform when your name is called.
2. Take the diploma in your left hand as the presenter hands it to you. You want to avoid the dreaded pass of the diploma from your right hand to your left hand before shaking hands. You will slow down the procession and risk dropping the diploma when transferring it between hands.
3. Stretch out your right hand and look for the presenter's hand with your peripheral vision. If you need to, you can quickly glance down at the hand of the presenter.
4. Slide your hands together until your palm matches up with the palms of the presenter.
5. Wrap your fingers around the hand of the presenter, and squeeze firmly. Don't try to crush his hand when you shake hands after receiving your diploma. The right pressure is similar to checking the firmness of an orange or avocado at the grocery store.
6. Move your arm up and down once in unison with the diploma presenter. If you feel the presenter is moving his arm up again, follow the movement.
7. Release the hand after a second or two.
8. Continue walking to the next person who may be available to shake hands with you in congratulation of your accomplishment.

Tips & Warnings

• Some seniors work together to pass a marble, small pebble or other items to the person handing out the diplomas when they shake hands. Watching the person receiving these small tokens can help pass the time while a long line of people get their diplomas.
• Hand shakes tell a lot about the people involved. Use a good hand shake after receiving a diploma, as well as when you meet people in the future.
• Watch for the camera as you receive your diploma. Don't look at the flash on the camera. Instead, focus on a spot above or below the flash. Don't forget to smile for this important picture.
• Avoid the dead-fish hand shake at all costs. The dead-fish is performed by keeping your fingers straight when your palms meet and allowing the other person to squeeze a limp hand.