A Golden Handshake: The fascinating history and science of the handshake

A Golden Handshake The fascinating history and science of the handshake The handshake dates It's thought that rather than bowing back at least as far as or curtseying, shaking hands proves: Ancient Greece. Both parties are equals A marble sculpture from circa 375-350 BC illustrates two men shaking hands. Both parties feel comfortable in each other's presence Handshakes vary in: Strength Duration Posture Research shows people with firmer handshakes are viewed as more positive and outgoing, and less socially anxious. Handshakes are thought to reflect people's personality and influence first impressions. Another study examined how a job applicant's handshake influenced hiring recommendations during an interview. Even after controlling for differences in the physical appearance and dress choices of the applicants, the quality of a person's handshake influenced whether or not the interviewer would recommend the person for the job. So why do we shake hands? A recent study suggests we shake hands to check out each other's odors. Handshakes allow us to pass chemical messages, known as chemosignals, to one another. While we're not consciously aware of this hand smelling instinct, handshaking offers a socially acceptable way to communicate via the sense of smell. The study found that not only do people often sniff their own hands, but they smell them for a longer time after shaking another person's hand. The number of seconds people smelled their own hand more than doubled after handshaking. Shake it off: Handshake tips Prepare When you're in an environment where you meet new people, try to keep your right hand free. Shift drinks and other belongings to your left hand. Take a stand Maintain eye contact and smile If you're sitting, stand up before shaking someone's hand. Face the person fully, maintain eye contact, and smile warmly. Position your hand When you reach out your hand to shake, keep it perpendicular. • Don't face your palm down (which is considered dominant) or palm up (which is considered submissive). Keep the space between your thumb and index finger spread wide. Go in for the shake Make sure your palm stays flat, not cupped. Once you make full contact, lock your thumb down and squeeze firmly. ------- Shake from your elbow, not your wrist (about 2 to 3 shakes, or roughly two seconds). ------- Release your hand and step back. ------- Greet the other person and repeat his or her name. Practice Before a job interview or networking event, practice your handshake so you'll be comfortable with it before a big event. Don't be a limp noodle Keep your handshake nice and firm. Don't rip anyone's arm off Too much power can make people wonder what you're overcompensating for. Don't linger or rush Stick to two seconds or so. SOURCES Make a lasting positive impression with these handshake tips. historyextra.com psychologytoday.com forbes.com theacropolismuseum.gr metmuseum.org themuse.com ncbi.nlm.nih.gov weizmann-usa.org Quill.om .com. A small part of your job is 100% of ours.