Your Job Depends On It
Let’s never forget, as we talk about building our credibility through blogging and SM, that in our people based, face to face business it is still the simplest, lowest tech things that can make or break us. And first impressions matter, I daresay more than ever as our world becomes seemingly more impersonal with every click of our mouse or keyboard. Need proof? New research by the University of Iowa confirms your handshake speaks volumes to those looking to hire you and, as a matter of fact, they say your grip tells a lot about your personality. What do potential clients and customers learn about you when you shake their hand?
What’s Your Type?
It is interesting to think about all of the people we shake hands with and take note of the impressions we get. Of course we don’t speak them out loud, but what kind of things go through our minds as we grip another’s hand in greeting? Do any of these handshake types remind you of anyone? Yourself perhaps? When is a handshake not appropriate? Why do you think the research suggests “It is women who may benefit more than men if they present a ‘strong and complete grip when they shake hands’?”
Work It!
I guess this latest handshake report is good news for us maniacal computers…all this typing and clicking ensures our hands are well-toned and strong, giving us an edge in the handshake department! We just need to be sure we put as much effort in to perfecting our handshake as we do in creating our profiles on Twitter, Facebook, et al. First impressions count, online AND offline.
Ricardo Bueno
October 28, 2008 at 6:39 pm
It’s a commission-based business. I think that at every point of the “sales process,” there’s an opportunity to be criticized by our clients. So I would agree…how we present ourselves (at any given moment; online or offline) influences whether our interactions will be positive or negative.
Vicki Moore
October 28, 2008 at 7:44 pm
I hate when people shake my hand with their fingers. It always gives me the creeps. It makes me instantly have a negative impression of them.
Steve Simon
October 29, 2008 at 5:30 am
Twitter profile, Facebook orifile; the internet “Handshake”, Hmm??
Makes sense!
Steve Simon
October 29, 2008 at 5:31 am
Profile, I just got up:)
Lori Bee
October 29, 2008 at 12:40 pm
I always shake my head when I see an agent who is trying to do business on his social networking site, then to suddenly make a rude, personal remark or even worse, a very unprofessional picture! Sometimes I think people don’t realize they are selling themselves as much as the homes they are marketing!
Missy Caulk
October 29, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Lisa, that is a cool link to the types of handshakes. Never thought about palms up or down. I know I don’t like that light fishy handshake, especially from a man. LOL