When I receive a limp handshake, I can tell the other person’s hand is being held out reluctantly, wrung out, for any remaining drip of sincerity.

On the other hand (yes I said that) a firm and warm handshake indicates trust and openness. A “welcome, let’s see how we can work on together.”

Not “can I let go now because I am not into this whole idea.”

Whatever it is perceived to be, it will be a lasting impression.

Then there was the time recently that I met someone and immediately received a firm and welcoming handshake, our guide for the event and our host. She made an immediate impression and lived up to it the 3 hours we were together. She owned the room as our guide. As it should be, but unfortunately, all too often, is not.

So look at your LinkedIn profile: is it a cold, weak, wet fish handshake (yecch) or is it a warm embrace and sign of a welcoming place to start to engage? 

Remember, you only get nanoseconds these days to make a lasting electronic impression.