Posted on Mon, Feb 22, 2010
President Medvedev of Russia is greeting the Health Secretary of Russia
Photo Credit: Reuters/ by D.Astakhov
Posted by Lyudmila Bloch, Etiquette Expert NYC
“Sending your message and simultaneously learning as much as you can about the other person while shaking hands takes some preparation and practice” say Robert E. Brown and Dorothea Johnson in their book The Power of Handshaking.
Etiquette experts still argue about the history of the handshake and its place of origin. But they all agree on one thing: a handshake in business is the most critical element in proper introductions and first impressions.
Many of us give and receive handshakes on a daily basis -- when introducing ourselves at a business meeting, signing a business contract, congratulating others, or even after stumbling upon a person we haven’t seen in a while. Whatever the circumstance, our first business introduction always leaves an impression within a few seconds – it might get you a job or a contract, or lose one for you.
Every country in the world has its own “greeting protocol” but there are a few rules that should be observed no matter where you are:
· Never invade the “personal space” of your new acquaintance -- stay at arm’s length prior to extending your hand. Your distance should emphasize your respect for the person’s territory and gracious awareness of this ritual.
· Never stand too far from the person you are meeting – you’ll look awkward while bending over and trying to reach his or her hand.
· Don’t act especially excited or obsequious while meeting VIPs, celebrities, or elected officials. Grabbing their hand with your two hands and pumping it vigorously is an obvious no-no! Instead, contain your excitement by offering a dazzling smile, enhanced eye contact, and a firm handshake to accompany your verbal greeting. Tapping the right shoulder of the person with your left hand is of course also inappropriate, as it reveals your naiveté and lack of basic etiquette knowledge.
· Never shake hands more than two or three times during a single introduction. Don’t prolong the shake – it makes people suspicions and uncomfortable (except when greeting in Arab countries. They prefer a very light and lingering handshake combined with kisses on both cheeks).
· Avoid a limp handshake or a wet-palm handshake at any cost. No one likes to receive a sweaty, nervous hand -- it gives an impression of insecurity, passive personality, and extreme anxiety of a greeter.
· Always establish a firm “web-to-web”contact by gently grasping the hand of the person you are greeting and squeezing it for a few seconds. Pause for a moment to express your interest and establish trust. Your grip should be warm, firm, and straightforward without any twisting or crushing. Putting your best hand forward will deliver a message of self-confidence, openness, and sincerity.
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