How to Shake Hands

By eHow Culture & Society Editor

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Historically used to show that both people were unarmed, the handshake today is a critical gauge of confidence, trust, sophistication and mood.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Etiquette Books
Step1
Extend your right hand to meet the other person's right hand.
Step2
Point your thumb upward toward the other person's arm and extend your arm at a slight downward angle.
Step3
Wrap your hand around the other person's hand when your thumb joints come together.
Step4
Grasp the hand firmly and squeeze gently once. Remember that limp handshakes are a big turnoff, as are bone-crushing grasps.
Step5
Hold the handshake for 2 to 3 seconds.
Step6
Pump your hand up and down a few times to convey sincerity. (This gesture is optional.)

Tips & Warnings

  • A two-handed handshake is not for first meetings. It is a sign of real affection, and you should reserve it for friends and intimates.
  • Handshakes are not appropriate in all cultures. Investigate local customs if you will be visiting a foreign country.

Comments

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mesr1993

mesr1993 said

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on 5/8/2008 As a woman, I like firm handshakes with other women and men. I dont like when I shake a woman's hand and it feels like a limp fish. I also dont like when a man puts his hand out to shake mine. I think it is proper and courteous for a man to wait for a woman and for a woman to shake hands with some firmness.

mesr1993

mesr1993 said

Flag This Comment

on 5/8/2008 As a woman, I like firm handshakes with other women and men. I dont like when I shake a woman's hand and it feels like a limp fish. I also dont like when a man puts his hand out to shake mine. I think it is proper and courteous for a man to wait for a woman and for a woman to shake hands with some firmness.

mesr1993

mesr1993 said

Flag This Comment

on 5/8/2008 As a woman, I like firm handshakes with other women and men. I dont like when I shake a woman's hand and it feels like a limp fish. I also dont like when a man puts his hand out to shake mine. I think it is proper and courteous for a man to wait for a woman and for a woman to shake hands with some firmness.

kerton

kerton said

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on 12/25/2007 My friends father only has his left arm. I am not sure if I should shake with the left or right. Typically when he extends his hand it is raised and his palm is facing down. I then extend my right hand with the palm facing up and he then will bring his hand down and gasp my hand. Your thoughts would be appreicated.

Lilian

Lilian said

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on 6/10/2007 can someone please tell me the meaning of a deliberate "left" handshake?

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eHow Article: How to Shake Hands

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