Ever wonder why the tradition of the handshake has proven so durable? Reputedly it began in Greece in the fifth century B.C.E. as a demonstration of trust – “Look, neither of us is carrying a weapon!” The simple handshake is an amazing trust generator.
Watch Digging Deeper as Dennis talks about the power of small gestures (like singing, exercising, or sharing a meal with others) as trust builders. We’d love to hear what strategies you’re using to build high-trust teams and successful negotiations. Please share with us in the comments below.
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marvin l house says:
You failed to mention the all too often “fist bump”. I do not care for it but more and more people are using it. Your thoughts?
Dennis Engelbrecht says:
Marvin,
You are correct that the fist bump is in some vogue. I know we use it a lot at the beginning and end of our tennis and golf matches as a promise for and a toast to everyone’s sportsmanship. As I look back at the experience, it certainly falls well short of the handshake in its intimacy and promise. that moment when you shake hands says a lot more. I hope Dr. Fauci is not right in predicting the end of the handshake.
For meetings, perhaps there is a need for a replacement to launch meetings and matches, perhaps some verbal back and forth to bring out the same results.
Dennis