On 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