How a Man Shakes Hands

How a man sits may leave room for interpretation, but how a man shakes hands is a big tell. A man employs a steady, firm, pump, and then lets go. While he shakes hands, he makes eye contact, as that’s where the social contract begins. That’s it. A man does not pump up and down repeatedly and he definitely does not hold on and lean in, as former President Joe Biden did with attractive women, and then go for a creepy word in their ear or sniff of their perfume. A man stays at arm’s reach and then backs up a step after the shake. He gives space and respect. He expects the other to do the same.

On the topic of handshakes it must be mentioned that they used to mean more. Deals used to be made on handshakes. These were known as gentleman’s agreements. Now, the gentlemen’s agreement went out of style when lawsuits came in, but in some circles they actually still matter. So, it is not just antiquated that agreements can be signed via a handshake, as some can actually still be legally binding. Whatever the case, before you enter into an agreement on a handshake, be sure the other party is also honorable, or, better yet, get it in writing with witnesses.