The way that you shake hands and say “hello” says so much about you. The other person will clearly spot how you feel about yourself and how you feel about them. And there are four handshakes that you must avoid at all costs because they say bad things about you.

The wet fish feels exactly as it sounds. Limp and with the fingers rather than the palm. It says “I’m uncomfortable meeting you and don’t feel good about myself.” In other words you have low self-esteem and lack confidence. Unfortunately many women do the ‘wet fish’ when they shake hands with a man. So please don’t do it.

The bone cruncher is very unpleasant and sometimes can be painful. It’s generally done by men who want to show how strong and powerful they are. But they’re usually the opposite. Someone who’s powerful has a certain aura and doesn’t need to show off with the bone cruncher.

The over-hander is another dominant handshake. It’s where you subconsciously twist the palm of your hand horizontal as you start to shake hands so their hand is underneath yours. It sends the message that you feel superior to them and they’re beneath you. It’s not very nice as it will make them feel very uncomfortable.

The pump-primer is where you just won’t let go and the handshake seems to go on for ever. It’s a sign that, although you’re trying to be friendly, you feel anxious and nervous. If someone does the pump-primer to you and you want stop it, just firmly drop your arm down and open your hand so they have to let go.

A proper handshake is easy. Face the other person, look them in the eyes (or at their face if you prefer) and hold out your hand so you shake with your palms together. Smile and say “hello” with a nice warm and friendly voice. You will then come across as confident, relaxed and pleased to meet them.