Shaking Hands Manners
    If you thought handshakes were just a gesture of greeting, then think again! A handshake is not only a way of greeting; it can also show your personality. Since we all want to set a good first impression, it is important to know the right shaking hands manners.
    Stand up and maintain eye contact while shaking hands. If you are seated when someone comes for a handshake, stand up and shake his or her hand. It is impolite to be still seated. Keep right distance between the two of you; not too close, but enough distance to shake your hands well. Keeping eye contact makes the other person feel welcome and comfortable.
    Keep a handshake brief and firm. You let go of each other's hand after 2-3 seconds. Make sure your handshake ends before your conversation does. One's handshake should show a feeling of strength and warmth. The hand should be firm and not lifeless like seaweed. Then, how firm should a handshake be? Just grasp the person's hand completely and do not press it too hard.
1. Which of the following statements about the significance of handshakes is not true?
A. Handshakes are just a gesture of greeting.
B. Handshakes are more than a way of greeting.
C. Handshakes can show our personality.
2. If you are seated when someone comes for a handshake, you should
.
A. stand up and shake his or her hand
B. keep seated and shake his or her hand
C. bow and say hello to him or her
3. Keeping eye contact while shaking hands makes the other person feel
.
A. nervous
B. comfortable
C. afraid
4. How long does a handshake usually last?
A. As long as the conversation lasts.
B. 5 minutes.
C. 2-3 seconds.
5. Which of the following words can best describe a proper handshake?
A. brief and strong
B. brief and firm
C. brief and soft