Handshake

In most cultures it is the official business greeting, the pressing of flesh where there  is that flicker of eye contact.

Depending in the meeting that few seconds could send a number of messages :-

I'm pleased to meet you.

I hope you like what I'm presenting.

I hope you can impress me.

I am going to get the deal I want because I am stronger negotiator.

Of course not exhaustive but gives a flavour of the scenarios.

In each that is what you are thinking but when you reflect, are you ready for that handshake ? In other words are you fully prepared with points to make,  explanations to questions and authority to negotiate what comes across ?

You see often people go to meetings with a belief they will deal with it there and then. A slightly naive view. The top deal makers would never go in with that arrogance.  They are at the top of their discipline because they prepare, they role play and they have black-out plans.

In their head they will pull out previous similar scenarios,  what went well what needed improved upon etc.

So when you go to your next meeting as you press the flesh do it in the knowledge you are prepared . Believe me it will influence your handshake and that brief moment may be enough to send the signal that you're feeling strong.