A job interview is an environment where every detail contributes to the overall impression a candidate makes. Non-verbal communication begins to shape the interviewer’s perception of professionalism and confidence long before a word is spoken. Understanding the etiquette of a simple gesture, like the handshake, can significantly influence the positive conversation that follows.
The Timing of the Interview Handshake
The most effective approach for an interview handshake is to engage in the gesture twice: once at the beginning of the meeting and again when departing. Shaking hands upon arrival serves as a confident, professional greeting that immediately establishes rapport with the interviewer or hiring manager. This initial contact should occur as soon as the interviewer extends their hand or upon being formally introduced in the meeting space.
The second handshake, performed at the conclusion of the interview, provides a strong, positive closing statement. This final gesture offers a moment to reiterate gratitude for the interviewer’s time and reinforce your professional demeanor and interest in the position. Candidates should remain standing and ready to engage in the final handshake as they thank the interviewer for their consideration.
While the candidate should always be prepared, it is generally respectful to allow the interviewer to initiate the first physical contact, particularly in formal corporate environments. If the interviewer does not immediately extend a hand upon meeting, the candidate may offer one after the initial verbal greeting is complete and the moment feels right.
Mastering the Handshake Technique
The physical execution of the handshake is just as important as the timing, conveying competence and assurance. A professional grip involves moderate firmness, avoiding both the limp “dead fish” grasp and the overly aggressive “bone crusher” squeeze. The goal is to match the pressure of the other person while projecting respect for professional boundaries.
The duration of the shake should be brief, typically lasting only two to three seconds, involving a quick pump or two before releasing cleanly. Maintaining direct eye contact with the interviewer throughout the interaction is necessary to project sincerity and engagement. Offering a genuine, warm smile simultaneously reinforces approachability and personal confidence during this brief exchange.
Ensuring the hands are dry and clean before the meeting is an important detail, as a clammy palm can be distracting and uncomfortable for the recipient. Candidates can discretely wipe their palms on a napkin or against their clothing just before entering the interview room to manage nervousness-induced moisture.
Navigating Non-Traditional Handshake Situations
Modern professional settings require adaptability, particularly when the traditional handshake is complicated by external factors. Following periods of heightened health awareness, many professionals have adopted alternative greetings, such as a slight nod or a polite verbal acknowledgment. If an interviewer signals avoidance of physical contact, the candidate should respect this boundary and respond with a warm, clearly articulated verbal greeting.
Cultural norms also introduce variability, as some global business settings prefer less physical interaction than is common in Western professional environments. Candidates interviewing with international companies should research the typical greeting etiquette for that region to ensure their approach is respectful. When an in-person greeting is completely absent, such as in a virtual interview, the focus shifts entirely to the screen and vocal delivery.
In a video call, the substitute for physical touch is maintaining strong eye contact with the camera lens, which simulates direct engagement with the interviewer. An enthusiastic and well-articulated verbal greeting conveys energy and professionalism through clear communication.
Beyond the Shake: Other Non-Verbal Cues
The impression established by the handshake is instantly supported or undermined by the candidate’s subsequent body language throughout the discussion. An attentive posture involves sitting upright in the chair, often leaning slightly forward to signal engagement and interest in the conversation.
Candidates should consciously manage any nervous habits, such as excessive fidgeting with pens, clothing, or hair, as these movements can signal anxiety or distraction. Maintaining an appropriate personal space, generally a comfortable arm’s length, ensures the interaction remains professional.
A subtle technique for building rapport is mirroring, which involves gently and briefly matching the interviewer’s posture or energy level. Mirroring creates a subconscious connection and rapport, provided it is executed subtly and does not appear to be deliberate imitation.