That All-Important Handshake

by Don Sanders, 12/05/2002

Shaking hands with people is usually the first and most important thing you do at business gatherings. It's scientific fact that people's body gestures give away their true intentions. So if you want to send the right signals, here's how to shake hands correctly. First, extend your hand with the thumb up, clasp the other person's hand, and then give two or three pumps from the elbow. Avoid both the painful "bone crusher" and the off-putting "wet noodle" handshakes, and be sure to look directly into the person's eyes--not below his or her chin.

Moral of the story: Always put your best hand forward!