Pet peeve: Weak handshakes

Image from here

Research shows that it takes between 3 and 90 seconds for an individual to form a first impression of someone. After that, other information presented is filtered through this initial impression. Prejudiced? Maybe. But we all do it. As the saying goes "you never get a second chance to make a first impression."

What can influence this first impression? This brings me to the subject of this post: the importance of a firm handshake. Having a firm handshake is vital to making a good first impression, and communicates professionalism and confidence as research out of the University of Alabama has shown (Chaplin, 2001, see a basic version here). Men and women with firm handshakes are evaluated more positively than those with limp handshakes and are seen to be more extroverted and open. Some may argue that emphasising handshakes as important promotes males as dominant in the business world, however, Chaplin's research demonstrated that women with firm handshakes were evaluated as positively as men.

Pet peeve: I think that this research can be generalised to a certain extent outside the business world. I cannot stand being introduced to someone, offering my hand to shake theirs and finding that they are a) surprised or even laugh and b) they offer a pathetically limp version of a shake, with no eye contact. I interpret this as being rude and occasionally arrogant.

I find this to be particularly common in late teens/twenty something hipster boys and girls, maybe trying to come across as cool or cute? It doesn't. I understand that in some situations an individual may simply be shy, but it is worth remembering that an impression is being formed and putting in the effort to make a polite greeting. Practicing is important.

Here are some tips:

1. MAKE EYE CONTACT. I cannot stress this enough, I could devote a blog to this but no-one would read it but me :)

2. Offer a firm handshake. Extend your hand and grip the other person's hand where the web of your thumbs meet for 3-4 seconds, while shaking the hand. The handshake should end before the introduction.

3. Offer a handshake whenever you:

a) Meet someone for the first time

b) Begin or end a meeting

c) Complete a business transaction

d) Leave a social or professional event

(clearly these are context dependent)

Practice makes perfect!

What is your opinion of weak handshakes? Is it rude or does it not matter?

pet peeve

Stockings/tights/leggings in amazing colours/prints that are "one size fits all."

It is always nice to find cute looking stockings, however my heart sinks when I look for the size and see the dreaded "one size fits all" label.

NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE CAN FIT "ONE SIZE FITS ALL"!!! Especially if you are 5ft10 or however tall I am, they get to about 3/4 up your thigh, which is extremely uncomfortable and you are constantly pulling them!

So this is my pet peeve of the day. Thank goodness for brands who make lovely xtall stockings.

On a similar note, I came across an interesting blog yesterday stocking vixen, a shout out to all types of hosiery. If you love stockings and vintage photos you should check it out!