6 handshake rules everyone should remember

A handshake is a very important thing. When you shake someone's hand, the hormone oxytocin is released in the brain. You open up to communicate, trust each other more, and even find your handshake partner a nicer person. The same thing happens in his head. But it's important not just to shake hands, but to do it right. How exactly - Vanessa Van Edwards, psychologist and author of The Science of Communication.

1. Keep your palm upright

During the handshake, the palm should be in an upright position. This puts you and the other person on an equal footing.

If someone turns your hand over so that your wrist is visible, then they are trying to dominate. Never start a handshake yourself from this position. This is how you show your weakness.

2. Make eye contact

Eye contact is not a direct part of the handshake, but it has a huge impact on the formation of the first impression.

When you look into the eyes of another person, as if saying: "I want to communicate with you." Such a look is much more important than the first words when meeting someone, because, like a handshake, it provokes the production of oxytocin. On a subconscious level, a person is perceived as open, pleasant, convincing and memorable. People will want to see you again and chat better.

If at the first meeting there is no eye contact, then for the brain it is like a red rag for a bull. The person is annoyed, thinks that they are hiding something from him, and treats you with suspicion.

3. Do not squeeze your hand too hard

Squeeze your hand tightly: a sluggish handshake is unpleasant and people will consider you an unreliable person who does not want to communicate. But don't do it too hard so as not to make anyone nervous. Shaking hands too hard can be intimidating and uncomfortable.

4. Don't hold your hand for very long

An ideal handshake lasts 3-5 seconds. Too long causes confusion and embarrassment. Too short and abrupt - the feeling that the person is not at all tuned in to communication and wants to leave as soon as possible. But if you are really in a hurry and meet on the run, then such a handshake will be appropriate.

5. Do not stretch out a wet hand

Shaking a wet palm is not a pleasant thing, but the point is not only that. Hands get sweaty when you're nervous, and nervousness doesn't help make a good first impression. Do not hold out a wet hand for greeting, do not show your excitement to another person. Carry handkerchiefs with you just in case.

6. Evaluate which is better in a particular situation: shake hands or hug

When you meet an old friend, you can shake his hand and even hug him. Everyone will be comfortable. But when it comes to new people in the environment, then you can get into an awkward situation and embarrass the person. Know in advance what type of greeting is appropriate.

Watch your body language when someone approaches you. If the hands cover the torso or one hand is outstretched, then the handshake is appropriate, but the hug is not worth it.