Hold On: Business Brush Up

More than once over the past week I have run across individuals in both business and my personal life that must have missed class the day we covered the basic handshake with regard to relationships. Though handshakes can falter both directions, either too strong or too weak, more often than not I’ve found they are entirely too weak, often noted as the “dead fish” syndrome.

You’ve probably already know that you can learn a lot about prospective employees and business relationships alike simply through the initial handshake. However, according to a study by human resource professionals, “Prospective employers said they’re more likely to overlook visible body piercings and tattoos than an ineffective handshake.”

Also, people are two times more likely to remember you if you offer them a good handshake upon first meeting, according to the Incomm Center for Trade Show Research. (It kind of makes you question TV personality Howie Mandel, host of Deal or No Deal as he refuses to shake hands due to his mysophobia, or fear of germs.)

Brush up on your handshake, and don’t be afraid to practice it to ensure better business and personal relationships.

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Posted by Shelly Paul, Career Management Coordinator, The H.S. Group