Have you ever stopped to think about your professional image? Your professional image also referred to as your brand image, is displayed in person and online. It’s the message you send out about yourself and it can impact ones first and final impression of you. There are several things you should consider when it comes to your professional image. Some of these things are easily overlooked but can have a great impact on a business deal, promotion, interview and more. One of these such items is a simple handshake.
Many inferences can be made by the way someone shakes someone’s hand. They can appear to show a lack of confidence or insecurity. It may seem as if they are saying, “I am superior to you.” They can seem disinterested as if they really don’t care about the person. Or, they may appear to state a position of strength by coming off as too aggressive. Depending on the type of relationship you are seeking, be it professional or personal, your handshake could send the wrong message.
You can avoid sending the wrong message by practicing these seven strategies.
Stand up.
Unless there is a physical reason why you cannot, stand up to greet the person. Doing so shows you respect them.
What are you looking at?
When shaking someone hand, many people will look down at the ground. It looks like you are looking at the person’s feet or hand. This could show a lack of confidence. Look them in their eyes and show them just how confident you are.
Have and maintain good posture.
Do not lean too far forward, leaning into the person. Stand straight and tall. Be sure to keep your proper distance, not coming to close to their personal zone.
To smile or not smile.
In most cases, you should smile when shaking hands. This will help to establish rapport and create a friendly, trusting environment. If the intent is to state a position of superiority and strength, for example when shaking hands with an opponent before a boxing match, you most likely won’t see anyone smiling.
Ouch! Not too hard!
Be careful of your grip. You can shake someone’s hand too hard. When you do this, the person will want to pull away from you, finding the approach to aggressive. They may think you are intentionally trying to hurt them. However, the opposite is true as well. If you are too soft with your handshake, it may be perceived as insecurity. It can also be viewed as there is a reason why you don’t want to shake their hand.
Not too long.
If you hold on to the person’s hand too long you may make them feel uncomfortable. Don’t linger. Hold on to the hand, with fingers closed, shaking two to three times from the elbow. The handshake should last for about 3 – 5 seconds.
Clean and dry.
If you find yourself with sweaty palms, be sure to wipe your hands before shaking someone hands. Also, make sure your hand is clean.
Respect culture.
Not every country views a handshake the same way. There are countries where individuals of the same sex do not shake hands. Other places, a strong handshake would be considered offensive. If you are traveling abroad, networking or conducting business with someone from a different culture, study their customs before the meeting.
A bad handshake can send the wrong message about your professional and personal image. Practicing these strategies with a friend or relative can help you make a good impression leading to great things. Why? A good handshake could be the start of a wonderful relationship.
If you would like to learn more about developing your professional image or how you can receive training for your company or organization, send me an email at cowens@infinitycoaching.net. Together we can create a strategy you can use to grow and enhance your business relationships.
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Executive and Leadership Coach. She is the President of Infinity Coaching, Inc. where she can help you up-level your skills, so you can up-level your income, career, business or life. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, personality assessments, and a signature program, the Infinity Coaching Inner Circle. Carolyn is certified to give both The Energy Leadership Index Assessment and Myers Briggs Type Indicator Assessment. You can find out more he about both assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
