The first moments of an interview can set the tone for everything to follow. Non-verbal communication is key to making a good first impression. A good handshake is a vital part of this.
A solid handshake walks the line between being too aggressive or weak. A fine-tuned one gives an impression of confidence and assertiveness. It’s a great way to present yourself when meeting a potential employer.
There’s a lot going on in what appears to be a simple interaction.
Here are 5 tips to nailing it your handshake and the interview!
Make the first move
Make eye contact and then reach out. When you move first, you give the impression you’re:
- Confident
- Eager to connect
- Positive about the coming conversation
Firm grip
A wimpy grip tells them you’re weak. No one likes a pushover.
A crushing one puts them on their heels. No one likes being squeezed.
A firm grip tells them you’re steady and reliable.
Smile
Smiling is our best way to put people at ease and create positive feelings. A modest, reassuring one during the handshake generates further feelings of confidence for both interviewer and interviewee.
Don’t linger
Think about the times you’ve had a handshake go beyond a pump or two. It gets awkward. In fact, researchers have found that long handshakes can trigger anxiety. It’s hard to imagine introducing a worse emotion into an interview.
End on the same note
A good handshake is also important in bringing the interview to a successful close. You can combine it with a farewell statement (“I appreciate your time and the opportunity.”) for a positive final impression. It’s the exclamation point that leaves them upbeat about everything that preceded it.
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