We all know the importance of a good first impression. In barely seconds of the meeting, people attain an array of details about us. They notice our face, hair, clothing, bodily proportions, posture, demeanor and the sound of our own voice. It’s an essential time since there is no second chance to produce a good first impression.
This happens … the handshake.
I remember when i took a communications class at a nearby church. The instructor had 30+ attendees fall into line single file. The instructions could look him in the eye and shake his hand. I had been confident I knew how to properly shake hands.
After the last person shook the instructor’s hand, he asked, “Tell me that which you seriously considered my handshake. Could it have been a good handshake or a bad handshake?” I liked his handshake. It had been a firm grip like mine. His handshake confirmed to me I knew how you can shake hands. I said, exactly, “good handshake.”
The real key said something that completely took me aback.
He explained the reason everybody liked his handshake was simple. He mirrored ours. In the event the handshake was firm, his was firm. If it would be a light touch, his would be a light touch. Should they used their contrary to know his, his contrary grasped theirs. He was quoted saying this handshake technique creates an instantaneous good impression and likeability.
Likeability?
Yes. It’s much like the way we feel when we meet a complete stranger and discover we share exactly the same name. Or while in conversation using a stranger, we learn we share a mutual friend. We magically like this person. This is the reason I call it the Magical Handshake.
From here on, It is advisable to never, ever, shake another person’s hand. Instead, let them shake yours. Mirror what they do. If you’re offered a strong grip, mirror a strong grip. If you’re offered a soft grip, mirror a soft grip. Make sure to mirror the shake too. It’s everything about the grip and shake.
The only real exception is when someone provides you with a handshake using their palm facing down. When you shake hands, they have the upper-hand and so are in charge. They dominate. This is whats called a hostile handshake.
When offered an aggressive handshake, respond by providing them a Double-Handed handshake having a wee turn. Start insurance firms your palms slightly upwards, grasping their hand with of yours. Then, straighten their handshake vertically using a wee turn as you’re shaking. This communicates in their mind, “we are equal.”
The next time you want to create a good first impression, give the Magical Handshake a try. Do it if you park and fly people. It’s a simple, surefire approach to enhance your likeability factor.
Faith Faith BBE, CTM, NE. Branding Expert, Speaker and Author of Blockbuster Branding for “The Little Guy” – How to Rock Everything you Got: business, service, product or book. For more branding ideas visit: www.FaithFaith.net
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