We tweet. We text. We IM, but the ultimate “Instant Messenger” in an interview is the Handshake.  Technology is fantastic, but don’t be quick to dismiss the perennial stand-by for introductions; the handshake.

For the most part, we’ve gone far beyond the origins of this gesture, which in Medieval times provided a way to demonstrate the absence of weapons for the approaching parties.   

From an employment perspective, we’ll focus on using the handshake as one facet of making a good impression on your interviewer, and potential employer.

DO:  Extend your hand, even if the interviewer does not offer their hand first.

DON’T: Be afraid to excuse yourself from the act if you are currently or recently very ill. Courteously explain that you would love to shake hands, but must refrain in order to prevent the spread of germs due to feeling under the weather. (This won’t count against you, it will be appreciated.)

DO: Offer your whole hand, extended to the side, thumb up.

DON’T:  Only offer up your fingertips; this is a weak gesture. It will feel awkward to the interviewer as well.

DO: Grasp the interviewers hand firmly and make eye contact. A firm handshake paints you as being confident with a good energy level.

DON’T: Act surprised the interviewer wants to shake hands. Anticipate it and as they approach, those with sweaty palms can quickly and surreptitiously wipe it gently on your pant leg, so you can present a dry hand, even if you are nervous.

DO: Grasp firmly and pump up and down twice then release.

DON’T:  Try to break anyone’s fingers in your attempt to be firm, but nine times out of 10, people tend to be too weak than too strong in their grasp. Also, don’t over pump or cover the shaking hand with your free hand, we’re going into an interview, not handing out big prizes on a game show. 

DO:  Offer your hand to the interviewer to shake as you depart the meeting (following all the same rules as the initial handshake) while thanking them for their time.

The ideal grip starts you off on the right foot (or shall we say hand). It “instant messages” via touch that you are confident, prepared, and feeling enthusiastic about the opportunity to be considered for the prospective job.

The best handshake is not memorable. It’s merely a stepping stone for you to dazzle with the rest of your interview skills. Chances are if it’s memorable, you inadvertently displayed a “don’t” or two from the list above. An astute interviewer is observing and assessing everything. Brush up on the tips above and don’t be afraid to “put ‘er there!”

Sheri Conner, Celebrity Staff Recruiter

About the Author, Sheri Conner
Sheri joined Celebrity Staff’s Lincoln office as an account manager in 2007 and is now a recruiter.  She brings a wealth of experience from the banking and mortgage industries, as well as experience in small business ownership, e-commerce, and in the entertainment field. Sheri is an Ambassador for the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Lofte Community Theatre where she appeared on stage in October 2009 in a comedic role.  Sheri also consults in the music industry for independent record labels and musicians both locally and in NYC in her free time.