Handshakes are a vital component that you need to bring to interpersonal encounter with anyone at anytime.

The History of the handshake

Whenever primitive tribes meet under friendly conditions in the ancient past, they would hold their arms forward and out, gesturing to the opposite mate that no weapons of any kind are being held.
However, in the ancient times, the lower arm grasp handshake is often used as a protection in checking whether the opposite mate carried a concealed dagger in the sleeve.


Things to take note of before and during a handshake

1. Always keep a handkerchief in your pocket at all times so that you can dry your sweaty palms. You wouldn't want to give the first bad impression during an interview just because of your sweaty palms!

2. Do not be shy to offer your handshake. It shows friendliness and acceptance.

3. Extend your right arm if you're a right hander. Slightly angle your arm at your chest lever or keep it vertical.

4. Give a firm handshake which includes: locked hands, thumb joint to thumb joint.

5. Remember to maintain eye contact with the opposite mate when shaking hands. Do not stick your eyes on your hand.

6. Remember not to give the Bone-crusher handshake or the Finger-Tip Grab. You can annoy or irritate the other person once you do this!

7. Pump the other person's hand 3 times and end the handshake.




An example of a handshake with thumbs joint to thumbs joint. Notice the thumbs are placed on both sides, creating a feeling of equality and mutual respect.
( CORRECT WAY )

















In this submissive handshake, one thumb is above the other. This is trying to imply that you are in charge of the situation and this sure isn't the appropriate handshake if you are the one going for an scholarship application!
( WRONG WAY )