I am an expert in Body Language and First Impressions and did three years of academic research on handshakes.
I have written several books, including "SNAP Making the
Most of First Impressions Body Language and Charisma." In addition, I
coach and train salespeople, scientists, engineers, IT specialists, and C-Suite
executives on first impression etiquette.
- Introduce people to each other. Suppose you don't
know someone's name. Or you forget whose name comes first, it is alright.
Don't avoid them or stand there hoping they will introduce themselves.
- If you forget a name,
simply say, "Please forgive me; I have forgotten your full name."
If that seems awkward to you, simply say. "Hello, I would like you to
meet my wife Sara, and hopefully, they follow through with their name. It
is still less awkward than standing their
- Introduce people by saying the higher status then
lower status, the official person then nonofficial, older person then the
younger, the individuals first then the group. If none of these rules
applies and you are talking to someone and someone you know comes up to
join you, say the name of the person with you first, then the name of the
person who approached.
- When you introduce someone, say one positive, engaging
fact or observation about them to help create connection and conversation.
For example:"Sara, this is Paul.","Paul, Sara is the
biggest Baseball fan I have ever met" Sarah, Paul has started playing
guitar and writing songs recently.
- If you are going to introduce a speaker or new member
at a meeting and you don't know how to say their last name, ask them ahead
of time and record it on your phone and or google, "How to pronounce ….insert
name" on Youtube and you can see someone say it. Don't say as you
introduce them, "I don't know if I am saying this right, then slaughter
their name.
- If you are unsure what the Covid etiquette rules are
at a location or event, ASK ahead of time!!!
- Greet people in a way they feel most comfortable. For
example, if someone offers you their hand to shake, don't say, "I am
a hugger and go to hug them. Likewise, if someone during Covid does not
offer you their hand, don't force them; instead, lean your upper body forward
slightly in respect/recognition and acknowledgment.
Rules for the perfect handshake
Rise if seated
Go towards the person with confidence
Smile briefly (even in serious situations)
Make eye contact
Face the person heart to heart
Present your hand with the thumb up
Make palm to palm contact
