A one-handed handshake uses one hand from each person. A two-handed handshake adds the greeter’s other hand over the clasp or around the wrist or forearm. That extra contact can feel warm between people who know each other. At a first meeting, it can feel intrusive. Neither grip proves that someone is sincere, confident, or trustworthy.
Which handshake should you use?
For a business introduction or job interview where a handshake is welcome, keep it simple: offer one hand, use comfortable pressure, and release naturally. Leave your other hand at your side. You do not need a second hand to make the greeting count.
A two-handed greeting is better reserved for an established relationship where that kind of touch is welcome. Knowing someone well does not automatically mean they want extra contact. If the other person pulls back or starts to release, let go.
What does the extra hand mean?
The two-handed grip is sometimes called the politician’s handshake. A person may intend it as reassurance, gratitude, or enthusiasm. The recipient may experience the same gesture differently, especially if their hand is held in place.
Treat those as possible interpretations, not a personality test. A photograph cannot tell you whether the gesture was welcome, how long it lasted, or what happened before it. Look at the full exchange and listen to the people involved before assigning motives.
Three ways to keep the greeting comfortable
- Offer rather than grab. Give the other person room to accept a handshake or choose a different greeting.
- Skip the wrist hold. Avoid adding contact that makes it harder for the other person to release.
- Follow the person’s preference. A smile, nod, or verbal hello works when a handshake is declined. Greeting customs vary, and a country label is no substitute for paying attention.
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Put it into practice
Preparing for an introduction? Read our job interview handshake guide. If the greeting goes sideways, here is how to recover from a missed handshake. For a greeting without the grip, try these seven handshake alternatives.
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