What type of first impression are you projecting with your handshake style? An individual’s handshake style conveys many important nonverbal messages. Here are examples of the most common handshake styles.
Traditional: The palm is slightly tilted back to show openness and receptivity. The grip pressure is firm with a palm-to-palm / web-to-web grip. Match the same grip pressure as you are receiving. This is the ideal handshake style to build rapport.
Controller or Dominator (palm-over-palm): This handshake is aggressive and intimidating with a palm-over-palm, dominating grip style. If you are on the receiving end, the best way to counteract it is by moving your body slightly to your right, to automatically reposition your palm into the neutral position without having to physically overpower the other person.
Vice grip: The grip pressure is excessive and very painful. This handshake is a show of power and lacks sensitivity. Typically, large men often underestimate their grip pressure strength and as a result, clamp down really hard.