6 handshakes and what they say about you

When you are introduced to someone, you are often required to shake their hand out of courtesy. This handshake is capable of making or breaking your reputation with this person.

Here’s what a handshake says about you:

Fist bump: Avoid this if you are meeting your prospective employer for an interview. You do not want to be associated with this. It is often linked to casual encounters, and is common where there is no need for serious business.

The lazy handshake: Grabbing someone’s finger tips for a few seconds in an attempt to greet them is lazy. The acquaintance may assume you are uninterested in them or you have already blown them off. This is considered rude, even though this might not have been your intended move.

The Bone Crusher: There is the firm handshake and there is one that threatens to break every single bone in your hand, all in one handshake. You might want to watch how much pressure you exert on a person’s hand.

Linger fingers: A handshake should at least linger for two to three seconds. Anything after that for most people would be considered creepy. Don’t overemphasise on your handshake as it might leave others wondering what you might be covering up.

Quick brush: You do not pay attention to the person extending their hand to you for a handshake. You simply brush yours against them and walk away probably looking disinterested or busy. This is not polite.

Firm handshake: This one spells confidence, trust and friendship especially in a formal setting. It is often used alongside an eye contact and a warm smile.