The handshake may appear little more than a formality to some, but to others it is a complete view into the personality of the person on the other end of the handshake. Here are some tips:
1. A good handshake:
* keep the fingers together with the thumb up and open
* slide your hand into the other person’s so that each person’s web of skin between thumb and forefingers touches the other’s
* squeeze firmly.
2. A proper handshake:
* is firm, but not bone-crushing
* lasts about 3 seconds
* may be “pumped” once or twice from the elbow
* is released after the shake, even if the introduction continues
* includes good eye contact with the other person
3. Extend a hand when:
* meeting someone for the first time
* meeting someone you haven’t seen for a while
* greeting your host(ess)
* greeting guests
* saying good-bye to people at a gathering
* someone else extends a hand
A good handshake will create more trust and confidence in you with the person you are meeting. Since you’re meeting new prospective home buyers or sellers everyday, it’s important to make a good first impression.
