Limp fish, bone crusher, the clamp are just a few of the awkward handshakes we've all received or unknowingly inflicted on others. This traditional form of greeting can reveal a lot about a person's character, attitude and traits. Even more startling is how long we remember those bad handshakes and make fleeting first impressions that affect future encounters.
'An aggressive handshake aka "The Bone Crusher" can be a sign that a person is over compensating, trying to excerpt social dominance whilst a limp handshake aka a "Limp Fish" suggests the person is anti-social and afraid of close social interaction'.
Recognised as a formal greeting in many cultures, the handshake is often the first time two homo sapiens touch. Think about the times you've shaken hands with a stranger, you might not think it's significant until you've been made aware of a bad handshake. It could be in a business meeting, hooking up with friends, acquaintances or even a job interview. The receivers are remembering those bad handshakes for years to come.
Matchmaking platform Trade.Love which carried out the research commented "The last impression you want to give a potential business partner is 'untrustworthy.' Something as familiar as a handshake in a business setting can portray that, which could have devastating effects to sealing the deal"
Here are some of the common handshakes and what they might reveal.
1. THE LIMP FISH
Talcum powder to the rescue! A sweaty or freezing cold hand can be a sign that a person is nervous about the current situation with body trying to naturally to cool itself by secreting fluids which you lovingly transfer to the other person. Nice eh…
A sweaty handshake can be a sign that the person is nervous about the current situation, but can also reveal that social situations are a worry. In some cases it can also be due to hyperhidrosis, a condition that affects 3% of the UK population.
2. THE VICE - 22%
After three to four pumps, it's time to let go! But they continue to grip your hand like a prized possession. There's not much you can do in this situation - go limp like a fish? Grip harder? Helplessly look on in despair? The situation is awkward.
A handshake that lasts forever can be a sign that the person is unsure of what to do next but can also suggests they are lonely and value close contact.
3. BONE CRUSHER - 7%
A strong handshake is often portrayed by political leaders when meeting the press. The indication here being the stronger the grip the greater the presence/dominance over the other person.
Surprisingly this can actually be a sign of a social weakness. An aggressive handshake is a form of overcompensation for lack of social skills and is an attempt to enforce a dominant position over the receiver.
4. EYELESS - 6%
Have you ever shaken someones hand only to see them looking at something else? They could be more interested in someone else or just looked past you out of arrogance, suggesting "You can have my hand but not my attention".
Research suggests that making no eye contact and looking down is due to the person being socially anxious about the situation or guilty about something. However blatantly looking past the person suggests the person is uninterested and arrogant.
5. DOUBLE HANDER - 4%
Often referred to as the 'politicians handshake' due to the appearance of being under control and restricted by the cupper. This style of handshake was perfectly executed by President Vladimir Putin when meeting George W. Bush.
The double hander can also be a sign of the utmost respect for a person. Offering both hands to your idol or close friends is like giving them a mini hug.
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