Handshakes are taken very seriously in the business world – too hard, and you’re a go-getting alpha-type who would sell their own granny to get to the top; too weak and you’re a simpering subservient, simply asking to be crushed, probably by someone whose handshake is way too hard.<\/p>\n
But forget all that anyway, because the pandemic has all but killed off the handshake, leading to a confused system of fist bumps, elbow taps, and meek waves.<\/p>\n
So, before we get into how to give a professional handshake (it will be back), let’s take a look at some alternatives…<\/p>\n
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Although we’re well past the worst of what the pandemic had throw at us, we’re still at a cautious stage in proceedings, which means going in for a handshake might still be met with a surprised rejection.<\/p>\n
So, here are some alternatives to the good, old-fashioned handshake.<\/p>\n
OK, so back to the handshakes.<\/p>\n
Thankfully, most of us see the handshake for what it really is – a way to greet another person, signify an agreement, or settle a deal – and not some way to assert authority over another person. If you see the handshake as a power-play, don’t bother leaving any of your watermarked, raised-lettering business cards behind as I show you the door.<\/p>\n
Whatever your thoughts on the handshake, there’s no escaping the fact it leaves a lasting impression on people – so what does your handshake say about you?<\/p>\n