When shaking hands, how should you position your hand?

When shaking hands, positioning your hand in a firm grip is essential for conveying confidence and respect. A firm grasp shows that you are engaged and sincere in the interaction, setting a positive tone for the conversation. This grip demonstrates mutual respect and establishes a connection, which is important in both professional and social settings.

A gentle grip is also critical because it allows the handshake to feel welcoming rather than overpowering. A balance between firmness and gentleness ensures that both parties feel comfortable. The correct technique reinforces social norms of etiquette, fostering good impressions and effective communication.

In contrast, lightly tapping the other person's hand may come across as disinterested or insincere, which diminishes the value of the greeting. Holding your hand at shoulder level can create an awkward dynamic, as it doesn’t embody the typical expectations for a handshake. Furthermore, grabbing someone's wrist can feel invasive and aggressive, which is counterproductive to establishing rapport through a handshake.