Tarpon Springs “It All Starts with a Handshake” Event

Handshake eventOn Thursday April 16, the Tarpon Springs Career Services staff hosted an event called, “It All Starts with a Handshake” in the courtyard next to the Student Life and Leadership building.  A tent was set up with 3 tables, each as a different station.  Students were given an event card and had to visit three stations to get their card stamped. The first station was how to tie a tie, the second was to practice giving a brief introduction, and the third was to practice a proper business handshake.  After receiving all 3 stamps, the student returned to the sign in table to be given a coupon from Chick-fil-A for a free milkshake.

Students had a lot of fun, and even had an attendee from the community who happened to be on campus at the library and she mentioned she has never been instructed on a proper handshake!

Top ten examples of bad business handshakes:

10.  The Sweaty Palm – self-explanatory, usually shows nervousness

9.  The Lobster Claw – pinching your fingers between their thumb and fingertips

8.  The Fist Bump – never acceptable in business

7.  The Wrestler – extending the hand forward with the palm down exercises control

6.  The Phantom – too quick as if too busy to shake hands

5.  The Lingerer – an awkward handshake that is more than two small shakes

4.  The Decliner – self-explanatory, but could be due to injury or fragility

3.  The Tickler – fingers awkwardly touch the other palm

2.  The Vice – a crushing grip

1.  The Dead Fish – lacks strength

Source: http://www.business.gov.au/handshakes