Handshake as a first impression tool

The way people shake hands can influence how others perceive them. This gesture, often performed without much thought, can signal confidence, shyness, or other traits, shaping initial impressions before any words are spoken.

Handshake and personality traits

Research has found that a firm handshake is often linked with traits like extraversion and emotional expressiveness. However, these associations are not absolute and vary by individual and context, showing that a handshake alone cannot define someone's character.

Ideal handshake guidance

Fanny Auger, in her book How to be more interesting, suggests that the ideal handshake is firm but not overly forceful. She emphasizes that the gesture should reflect presence and availability, avoiding extremes that might be misinterpreted.

Gaze during the handshake

The gaze exchanged during a handshake is equally important. A study found that mutual eye contact before shaking hands can make the interaction feel more intentional and welcoming, influencing how the handshake is perceived.

Interpretation and expectations

Handshakes and eye contact can shape our initial impressions, but they are influenced by our own expectations. A firm handshake might be seen as a sign of confidence, but this perception can be biased by what we hope to see in someone.