16: FROM IRON-CLAD DEALS TO A SYMBOLIC GESTURE… YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO (WHAT NO ONE TOLD YOU ABOUT) HANDSHAKES
Get a Grip on History, Business, Politics, and Romance
Why Shake on It? The Importance of this Newsletter
Handshakes are more than just a greeting; they're a universal language of trust, respect, and connection. Understanding the history and nuances of handshakes can enhance your social, professional, and romantic interactions. Plus, this newsletter will arm you with FUN facts and research insights to transform your handshake into a powerful tool.
By the end of reading this newsletter you will have:
Enhanced Professional Etiquette & Networking: Understanding the nuances of handshakes can significantly improve your professional interactions, helping you make strong first impressions and build lasting business relationships.
Stopped the #1 Non-Verbal Communication Mistake in Its Tracks: A bad handshake is like a misfired emoji in a face-to-face chat – it sends all the wrong signals! It's the ultimate nonverbal faux pas that screams “oops'“ in the language of first impressions, trust-building, and professional cool. Remember, your handshake is your personal logo – make it a good one.
Improve Your Cultural & Historical Insight: The article offers valuable perspectives on the cultural and historical significance of handshakes, enriching your understanding of social dynamics, which in turn broadens your cultural awareness.
Business Deals: Sealing with a Shake
Video above: Host of CNBC’s, “The Profit, Marcus Lemonis explains why the handshake matters. Full Service Real Estate Group
In the fast-paced, emoji-filled world of business, where deals can be struck with a click and partnerships formed in a virtual meeting room, the humble handshake stands tall – quite literally – as the unsung hero of the boardroom ballet.
Imagine, if you will, a scenario where two corporate gladiators are about to seal a deal. Sure, they've exchanged countless emails, survived the marathon of meetings, and navigated the labyrinth of legal jargon. But then comes the moment of truth: the handshake. It's the business world's equivalent of a knight's sword, minus the clanking and the armor.
A study from the Weizmann Institute of Science showed that a strong handshake could lead to better cooperative relationships and even higher sales.
This age-old ritual is not just about sweaty palms meeting; it's a symphony of unspoken words. A firm, confident handshake – the kind that says, "I've got a 4.0 in deal-making" – can set the stage for a flourishing partnership. It's like a secret language, where the pressure applied and the duration of the handshake can convey trust, respect, and mutual understanding. It's an art form, really. A well-executed handshake can be the difference between a deal that fizzles and one that sizzles.
And let's not forget the psychological sorcery at play. Research suggests that a good handshake can influence first impressions and foster a sense of trustworthiness. For instance, research from the Weizmann Institute of Science shows that strong handshakes can foster cooperation in business, highlighting their role in professional interactions.
In a world where business deals are as complex as rocket science (sometimes literally), the simplicity of a handshake acts like a trusty anchor, reminding us of the human element in the sea of digital transactions. So, next time you're about to close that big deal, remember all that you’re about to learn in this newsletter regarding the power of the handshake – it's the business world's closing bell of negotiations.
CEO of Camping World, Marcus Lemonis shared with USA Today that he believes that operating with a handshake is the only way to build his $3 billion empire. He said, “I'm a big believer that a person's word and handshake are the best signature you can have."
- Marcus Lemonis, Host of “The Profit” on CNBC
A Brief History: From Swords to Suits
Alright, let's take a FUN and easy stroll down the handshake history lane!
Once upon a time, in the ancient world, people were a bit wary of each other (as you would be when everyone carried a sword or a spear). To show they weren't up to any mischief, they'd reach out with an empty hand. Voilà, the handshake was born! Historians think the handshake started in Greece around the 5th century BC. It was like saying, "Look, no weapons here!"
Fast forward a bit, and the Romans took this idea and ran with it. But they were a little extra – they'd grab each other's forearms to check for hidden daggers up the sleeve. Sneaky, right?
As time marched on, the handshake started to be about peace and agreement. Knights in the Middle Ages would shake hands to shake out any weapons (and probably to show off their shiny armor). By the time the Quakers popularized it in the 17th century, the handshake was all about equality and goodwill, without the whole sword and armor drama.
Then came the business world, where sealing the deal with a handshake became the norm. It was like saying, "You can trust me," without signing a mountain of paperwork.
Video clip above: The Simpson‘s billion dollar handshake (Disney/formerly Fox)
And today? The handshake is everywhere – from meeting new people, to starting international peace talks, to crushing it in a job interview. It's a little gesture that carries a big history of trust, peace, and "no swords, promise!"
Now let’s DRIVE into what is happening inside our brains and bodies when we shake hands…
Physiological & Psychological Processes
Welcome to the intriguing world of “Psychological and Physiological Processes” in handshakes – a fascinating dive into the hidden science and subconscious signals at play every time our hands meet in this age-old gesture.
Here’s some wicked cool stuff of what’s going on inside your body:
Oxytocin Release: In some cases, especially in more intimate or familiar interactions, a handshake can lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone that enhances bonding and trust between individuals.
Release of Neurotransmitters: The physical contact of a handshake can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These chemicals are associated with pleasure and reward, which can create feelings of happiness and positivity.
Video above: 2-Minute Neuroscience: Reward System by Neuroscientifically Challenged
Stress Response Modulation: Handshakes can influence cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. A firm, confident handshake can reduce cortisol levels, thereby lowering stress, while a weak handshake may have less of this effect. So stop using the “wet fish” because you are literally stressing people out!
Activation of Brain Regions: Certain areas of the brain, such as those involved in social cognition and empathy (like the prefrontal cortex), are activated during physical social interactions like handshaking. This helps in processing social information and forming judgments about others.
Increase in Heart Rate: In some cases, especially in nervous or high-stakes situations, your heart rate may slightly increase due to adrenaline release.
Release of Endorphins: The physical contact of a handshake can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can induce a sense of comfort and decrease anxiety.
Mirror Neuron Activation: Mirror neurons in your brain, which are involved in empathy and understanding others' actions, are activated during a handshake, aiding in social bonding and connection.
Initiating and concluding meetings with a handshake is crucial due to mirroring and the “recency effect,” a psychological phenomenon where the LAST experience is most vividly remembered, ensuring your final moment of connection leaves a strong, positive impression long after the meeting ends.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Physical contact, including handshaking, can influence blood pressure. A positive social interaction can lead to a slight decrease in blood pressure due to relaxation and increased comfort. Who knew?!
These reactions highlight how a simple handshake can be a complex, meaningful interaction involving both the mind and body, playing a significant role in social bonding and interpersonal dynamics. Plus, according to the research, a handshake is equivalent to three-hours of building rapport online or over a phone call! (Enough with the zoom meetings already!)
Now that we’ve covered how important a handshake is in a business deal, the history of handshakes, and what happens to us when we shake hands, let’s explore the world of politics and dating, before we close with some FUN facts about handshakes.
Shaking Up Politics: The Power Grip
As a body language expert, I’m often asked by media outlets like CNN, FOX, NewsNation, and the Washington Post and the New York Times to analyze handshakes after a political debate or after world leaders meet one another. While I’m not political savvy, this is an easy read once you understand the subtle nuances of handshakes and body language, which you can playfully learn, within less than 5-minutes by taking my FREE quiz found below.
Discover What’s Going On in the World of Politics on Substack
If you haven’t read my Substack newsletter from last week, 14: UNSPOKEN DIPLOMATIC POWER WITH BLINKEN & OTHER WORLD LEADERS you may find it interesting (shoot me a message what surprised you).
And if you’re like me and you’re not super up on the political landscape these days, you can catch up with me over at Elise Labott’s cutting-edge and riveting newsletter COSMOPOLITICS and my other fav is Letters from an American by Heather Cox Richardson.
In politics, handshakes can be a tool for diplomacy and a measure of character. For example, a study by the University of Alabama found that political candidates who have a firm handshake are more likely to win elections. And a study by the University of Alabama reveals that a firm handshake can positively influence political campaigns. This underscores the handshake's power in the world of diplomacy.
Maybe you’re thinking, “Okay Janine, I get that handshakes matter in business and in politics, but what about in dating?” Thanks for asking Friend…
Romance in the Palm of Your Hand
Imagine you're on a first date, and there it comes - the moment of the first handshake. It's not just a greeting; it's a story in the making. A study conducted at the University of Manchester suggests that handshakes can convey underlying chemical signals, playing a subtle yet significant role in the initial stages of attraction. It's the unspoken language of first impressions in the dating world. And while there are not endless studies that directly link handshakes to the fluttering world of dating, let's not underestimate their power.
A handshake can speak volumes in the language of first impressions. It's like a sneak preview of a person's personality: firm, confident, maybe a bit playful? Psychologists suggest that we form impressions of people within the first few seconds of meeting them, and a handshake is often our first physical connection. It sets the tone for the date, like the opening scene of a romantic comedy.
Then there's the science of touch, subtly playing its role. As we discussed above, when we touch, even in a brief handshake, our bodies release oxytocin, the “cuddle hormone,” which fosters trust and bonding. Imagine that – a simple handshake potentially sparking a chemistry that could rival the works of Shakespeare!
So, next time you're reaching out to shake hands on a date, remember, it might just be the prologue to your own romantic movie.
Now that you’re all primed up about the power of handshakes in dating, how about we quickly test your ability to spot who has the upper-hand then we’ll go into handshakes around the world and 10 FUN facts about these hand-to-hand hellos?!
Introducing the "Power Play in Handshakes: Celebrities and Leaders Edition" Quiz (4-5 minutes)
Test your knowledge and intuition about how the world's most influential figures use handshakes to their advantage. This FUN, 10-questions, interactive quiz is not just entertainment; it's a learning tool to understand the subtle dynamics of power and persuasion. And you’ll learn the #1 biggest mistake with handshakes… not knowing who actually has the upper-hand!
Let me know how you did on the quiz? I know I threw a couple tricky ones in there but the best way to learn is getting something wrong, wouldn’t you agree?
The Intriguing World of Handshake Etiquette Around the Globe:
Now that you know what an upper-hand handshake looks like, let’s explore international handshake must-knows! Each country's handshake etiquette reflects its cultural values and social norms. When traveling or interacting with people from different cultures, being mindful of the following nuances can greatly enhance mutual respect and understanding:
Australia: Handshakes in Australia are typically firm and brief. Australians value a straightforward approach, so a strong handshake is seen as a sign of confidence and friendliness.
Brazil: Brazilians often have a warm and longer-lasting handshake. It's accompanied by strong eye contact and a smile, reflecting the friendly and open nature of Brazilian culture.
Canada: In Canada, a firm and brief handshake is standard. It's seen as a gesture of openness and professionalism. In French-speaking areas, like Quebec, a light handshake is more common.
China: Chinese handshakes are often lighter and can last longer than in Western cultures. It's also polite to slightly lower your head as a sign of respect.
Egypt: In Egypt, handshakes are usually prolonged, especially when the individuals know each other well. It’s not uncommon for a handshake to continue for the entire duration of a conversation.
France: In France, handshakes are typically quick and light. It's important to shake hands upon meeting and departing, which is a common practice in both personal and professional settings.
Germany: Germans value a firm handshake with direct eye contact. It's common to shake hands both when meeting and leaving. Not offering a handshake could be seen as rude.
India: Traditional Indian greetings involve a namaste (hands pressed together at the chest), but handshakes are common in business settings. The handshake is usually not very firm and is often done with the right hand only, as the left hand is considered impure in some Indian traditions.
Italy: In Italy, handshakes are warm and may be accompanied by a light touch on the arm. Italians value expressiveness and personal connections, so expect a firm but friendly handshake.
Japan: In Japan, the traditional greeting is a bow, not a handshake. However, with globalization, handshakes have become more common, often accompanied by a slight bow. The handshake is usually gentle and brief.
Nigeria: In Nigeria, especially among the Yoruba people, your left hand should touch the right forearm (the elbow area) while shaking hands. This gesture shows respect and is often used in more formal settings.
Russia: A firm handshake is the norm in Russia. It's common to maintain direct eye contact during the handshake, which is a sign of sincerity and confidence.
South Korea: In South Korea, a handshake often follows a bow as a sign of respect. The handshake itself is usually gentle. It’s also polite to support your right forearm with your left hand as a sign of respect, especially when greeting someone senior.
Turkey: Turkish handshakes are firm and can be held for a longer time than in many Western countries. It's also common to hold the other person's right elbow with your left hand as a sign of warmth and sincerity.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): In the UAE, a lighter handshake is the norm. It’s common for the handshake to be followed by bringing one’s hand to the heart, which shows respect and sincerity. In more traditional settings, Emiratis might opt for a nose-to-nose touch instead of a handshake.
Before we wrap this baby up, let’s check out 10 FUN facts about handshakes, shall we?!
10 Fun Handshake Facts: Grip onto These
Welcome to our "10 Fun Handshake Facts" section! From quirky historical anecdotes to amusing global variations, these facts promise to give you a firmer grasp on the world of handshakes. Let's DRIVE in!
1. The world record for the longest handshake is 43 hours and 35 minutes.
2. Some studies suggest that we can unconsciously judge someone's personality from their handshake.
3. Handshakes activate the same part of the brain as hugging.
4. In some cultures, a limp handshake is considered respectful.
5. Your handshake can change your body's chemistry, increasing the stress hormone cortisol when it's weak.
6. The “fist bump” originated as a safer and more hygienic alternative to handshakes.
7. A study found that people are more likely to trust someone with a firm handshake.
8. There's a Guinness World Record for the most handshakes in 24 hours: 21,695.
9. Queen Elizabeth II is estimated to have shaken more than 1 million hands during her reign..
10. In the digital world, a "handshake" refers to an automated process of negotiation between two systems, like in establishing a network connection.
Phew, we did it! Let’s wrap this baby up with a quick conclusion, who knew there was so much to learn about handshakes? Right?!
Conclusion: The Handshake - A Timeless Gesture
As we bring our handshake journey to a close, let's pause and give a round of applause (or a firm handshake)! The handshake has journeyed from being the cornerstone of business agreements to a symbol of professional courtesy to our dating lives. While it may no longer carry the weight of a signed contract (other than for Marcus from “The Profit”), its significance in building and sustaining professional relationships remains undiminished.
Remember, your handshake is more than just a social nicety; it's a powerful tool that reflects who you are and how you connect with the world. So, the next time you extend your hand, think of it as your personal signature – an opportunity to make a lasting impression.
Whether you're clinching a deal, making a new friend, or stepping into a new adventure, let your handshake be your guide. It's a small gesture that opens doors to big opportunities. And, for the love of God, remember to shake hands AGAIN at the end of a meeting because people will remember your last interaction with them just as much as your first impression!
Thank you for joining us on this handshake adventure. Keep practicing that grip, and who knows? Your next handshake might just be the start of something wonderful.
Shake on it? 🤝
Until next time,
Janine DRIVER
Editor-in-Chief, Handshake Herald ;)
Resources
Chaplin, W. F., et al. (2000). "Handshaking, Personality, and First Impressions." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
Feinerman, O., & Arieli, A. (2017). "A handshake is worth more than a thousand words: Breakthrough in human-robot communication."
Stewart, G., et al. (2008). "The Employment Interview: The Role of the Handshake in Hiring Decisions." Journal of Applied Psychology.
Nagy, E., et al. (2020). "Effects of Handshake Duration on Other Nonverbal Behavior." Perceptual and Motor Skills.
Dolcos, F., & Dolcos, S. (2012). "Science reveals the power of a handshake." Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience.
Schroeder, J., et al. (2019). "Handshaking promotes deal-making by signaling cooperative intent." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
Great article! I enjoyed the handshake facts!