A handshake is the single most important aspect of an introduction. This cupping of palms can make or break you. “Be assertive, but don’t be too strong” “Keep the wrist locked but don’t be too stiff”. There are so many rules for such a basic action. To judge someone by their handshake is just as asinine as judging that person by their shoe size. “I’m sorry sir we cannot hire you because you wear a 13 2E” doesn’t that just sound dumb? How is that any different from the conversation in the board room after an interview “his handshake was rather weak, this proves to me he is a timid and weak individual and will not fit in with our company.”? It’s time for a change.
What would be the next logical choice for an introductory gesture? A high five, too iffy too many people miss. Respect knuckles? Nope, too firm gonna break your hand. A jumping chest bump, personally this or a jumping shoulder bump would my pick. Imagine a business meeting getting started with Europe’s “Final Countdown” playing over the speaker phone and you coming run in the office being announced as the best financial analyst this side of the Mississippi, and running down the end of the line give a little jump turn and perfectly connect with your boss mid air. This does have its downfalls though. Unfortunately some roided up jackass might get a bit too ambitious and want to play the juggernaut. So if the shoulder bump is out what is there left?
One thing is for sure I am not going back to the handshake. There is no need to “learn” how to shake hands, you shake how you shake. You do you. Pinky touch? That could work. Upon introduction simply make pinky finger to pinky finger contact. I’m not sure if this is even possible to screw up. From here on out I am officially calling an end to the handshake dictatorship and introduce the wave of the future, the pinky touch!!
If I see you on the streets, get that little guy on the end of your hand ready....cuz I'm gonna touch it! FTW
