What is a good hand shake?

Answer 1

There's a secret to a good handshake.

You make the web between the thumb and forefinger on who's hand your shaking meet yours (not all women though some like the dainty finger handshake) - try it - you can't squeeze too hard, which you don't want to do, and you don't have to worry if it's too rough or soft. Just a firm grip is good. If you try it, squeeze harder than normal, then back off a bit and try it again, you'll be surprised at the difference.

Answer 2

First, know when to give a handshake. Don't proffer a hand if you, or the other person is holding something. If the other party moves their drink or canape to the off hand to initiate a handshake that's fine, but don't be the one to initiate an awkward series of motion.

Don't offer your hand while seated or behind a desk or table. Get up, walk around then initiate the handshake.

And, when in a casual situation, don't offer your hand to a lady if you are a man. Accept her handshake if she offers it, but otherwise just give a verbal greeting and slight bow or nod of the head.

The handshake itself:
Maintain eye contact throughout the process. Grip firmly, but don't strain. Wait to grip down until you make contact with their hand in the space between the thumb and index finger. You don't want to close down preemptively. This makes you look like a sissy girl. Also, don't put your other hand on top of the shake, it can make you seem nervous or creepy.

You should shake from the elbow, not the wrist. Once again: sissy girl.

The shake should only last for two or three pumps. Make sure you're still talking when you break the shake.

And for Pete's sake, if you suffer from clammy hands, discreetly wipe them off prior to initiating a handshake.

Answer 3

Always do a firm hand shake--(nice grip) when you are doing business--like an interview or meeting a co-worker for the first time, etc. That is very important--I found that out. I don't know why--but it is very respectful. I don't mean to shake their hand like you want to arm wrestle or shake you hands up and down two or three times--that is not good. :) I mean 'one firm downward motion and look them in the eyes and smile.

Answer 4

that depends on the culture. europeans prefer a firmgrasp, not a cold wet fish or a strength contest. The Navajo Indians, mainly in NE Arizona have a very gentle touch as to say I know you. The there is the French, kissing each other on the cheek (maybe because no one else will?)
There is the two handed grip in some cultures as thou you are about to enter into a Greco-Roman tourney
When in doubt a nice gentle but firm gripping of hands, it is an expression of yourself first and formost

Answer 5

Firm....but not crushing....full handed....not those wimpy just the tips of your fingers.....dont look at the hands......look em straight in the eyes....and only hold the shake for a count of three.

Answer 6

A good firm grip and shake-going up and down two times.
Once is over-confident.
Twice is perfect!
Three times...it's starting to seem a little desperate....

:)

Answer 7

One that is not wimpy! I hate a wimpy handshake! Should be a nice firm grip, one shake.

Answer 8

I just want to echo the first answer you recieved. I think he is exactly right. I have always done it that way it just the way I was raised.

Answer 9

Somewhat firm and confident. Not too limp, or you just look like a pansy.

Answer 10

a firm one