What Is Proper Handshake Etiquette? Ways To Shake Hands Around The World

Ever since Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's much-talked-about encounter with President Donald Trump's 19-second-long handshake, the Trump shake has been the talk of the town. The "Trumpshake" has a jerky motion after which he generally pulls his counterpart towards himself.

"…his handshakes are small, hyper-masculine demonstrations of strength," explains Moustafa Bayoumi in the Guardian. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who met Trump Monday, managed to neutralize the "Trumpshake" with a clever combination of timing, balance and control.

There are ways Trump could tone down his greetings and stop bewildering people around him. He can use the following etiquettes to indulge in a proper handshake:

1. What do you do when you first meet someone? You could extend your hand first or wait for the other person to do so. You should remember that people often judge you by your handshake, so it should be pleasant.
2. The person who is either senior or holds a superior position should be the one to initiate the handshake. Being overtly eager is never appreciated. But if you initiate the handshake, do not pull back. That would be rude.
3. Confidence is the key to a great handshake. Maintaining eye contact will ensure that. But there is a fine line between confidence and over-confidence. Walk the tight rope but do not fall off to the wrong side.
4. Offering a mute handshake is considered lukewarm. Greet while you shake. It makes the handshake personal and helps make a positive impression.
5. Do not take too long. Two to five seconds should be your time frame. If you linger, it will just make it weird.

Handshake and greeting etiquettes differ around the world. When in Brazil, expect a strong handshake that lingers on, mix in strong eye contact, and greet women with a kiss on each cheek. Repeat the routine when you leave.

Russians don't shake the hand of the opposite sex unless it's a business situation, since a man should kiss a woman's hand. If you're going to shake, though, bulk up and make it a bone crusher.

Be it the first time or the 100th, the French keep it to a brisk shake and a peck if you are close.

People in Thailand don't shake hands! One offers what's called a "wai," placing their palms together at chest level and bowing. A man then greets with "Sawadee-krap." But a woman says "Sawadee-kah" (both mean "Hello"). Shake hands only if a wai is not offered.