When to Handshake while you go for an Interview

The way you shake the interviewer's hand could seal your chances of employment either way. Making eye contact and offering a firm handshake exhibits confidence and professionalism. Conversely, a limp handshake and a barely audible "thank you," could end your chances of moving forward to the next step in the selection process. A handshake is appropriate at the end of your interview; however, shaking hands also is appropriate before and during your interview.

When another person arrives after your interview has begun, it's proper to stand and greet the second interviewer with a smile and firm handshake as you're introduced to each other. The only exception to this is when the second interviewer says, "Please, don't get up." This goes for men and women. Men typically were the only ones expected to stand when greeting a man or a woman; however, in a business setting, standing to greet another person is a sign of respect that transcends gender rules.