Discovery.com reports that researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a mathematically optimal formula for the perfect handshake, based on 12 key measures, including vigor, eye contact and hand temperature.
"The human handshake is one of the most crucial elements of impression formation and is used as a source of information for making a judgment about another person," he said.
The researcher added he was surprised "that up until now there has not been a guide showing people how they should shake hands," which has been a traditional greeting and a key part of business deals for thousands of years.
Beattie’s steps to the perfect handshake, for both men and women, are: use the right hand; a complete grip and a firm squeeze (but not too strong); a cool and dry palm; approximately three shakes, with a medium level of vigor, held for no longer than two to three seconds.
The handshake must also be executed with eye contact kept throughout and a good natural smile with an appropriate verbal statement.
While I do find this research interesting and moderately useful, I was particularly struck by the comment from someone who identified himself only as “Bubb Rubb”:
It’s no wonder that yet another study must be performed for something that we once thought was natural. Way back when…. a boy learned a proper handshake from his father. His father learned it from his father. Things like manners, common courtesy and of all things since the Romans, the handshake, have gone by the wayside. Pretty soon we will all need a shovel to find our collective bootstraps.
Along these lines, while it’s not entirely scientific, I do have a sort of “formula” for the perfect virtual handshake, i.e., how to introduce yourself and make a good first impression in a forum or group. Again, it should come naturally. Unfortunately, it doesn’t, as readily evidenced by spending any amount of time in discussion forums. And a little refresher can help keep you at the top of your game.
Image credit: thinkpanama