Skaking Hands

[CaptBob]

I have 2 questions now and possible more later.

1). Should you always Shake hands when you can? You mention it but is it something you should always do if you can. Personally I feel stupid shaking hands with 10 people in a row.

I was 18 when I had gone thru the Fire academy and I always sucked at the Orals. I gave up that dream.....now I am 33 yrs old. I just wrapped up Fire and EMT once again and am currently in Paramedic school.

A. No matter how many are present just keep shaking hands like an enthusiastic politician because handshakes are thought to be a judge of your character. Practice them.

What is the proper way to address the interview panel?
What order should they be greeted?

A. One of the raters will usually come out, escort you into the room, and introduce you to the other panel members. Don’t try to turn your self inside out trying to remember their names (they are often on cards in front of them). As you’re introduced, look the rater in the eye and give a firm handshake. Too many times candidate give a dead fish handshake. Come on folks.

When shaking hands with a female rater don’t wait for the high beams to come on in her eyes because of too much pressure. Just match the pressure in their handshake. At the end of the interview they will usually stand and shake hands again. Same eye contact thanking (by rank if you know) them for the opportunity.


"Nothing counts 'til you have the badge . . . Nothing!"

Fire "Captain Bob"
www.eatstress.com

888-238-3959

[kghemtp]

Sounds like one more ingredient in the recipe for success! Thanks CaptBob

[HM604OH]

Originally posted by CaptBob
As you’re introduced, look the rater in the eye and give a firm handshake. Too many times candidate give a dead fish handshake. Come on folks.

About 10 years ago, my son and I had the opportunity to meet Tommy Lasorda, of the LA Dodgers (even though we're Reds fans). As the coach shook hands with my son (10 years old at the time), he stopped and said "You call that a handshake." Lasorda then went into a several minute lesson on the importance of a strong handshake and had my son practice until he got it right. This in spite of the fact that there was a large crowd present to meet the coach and get his autograph.

My son is in college now and recently went through a series of interviews for a summer job. As he was getting ready for one of his interviews, I reminded him of the Tommy Lasorda incident. He replied that he would never forget as long as he lives. "How many 10 year olds get chewed out by Tommy Lasorda for a weak handshake," he said. He added that he thinks of that moment whenever someone extends their hand.