Factors to consider
Traditionally, you shake hands at an interview as a professional gesture to greet and establish rapport with the interviewer. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and concerns about personal hygiene and transmission of germs, the appropriateness of shaking hands has become more uncertain.
Health authority recommendations
In many countries, health authorities and organisations have encouraged minimising physical contact to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. As a result, some employers and interviewers may prefer to avoid shaking hands during interviews or other professional settings.
Follow the interviewer's lead
It is always a good idea to follow the guidance of the interviewer or company you are visiting. If the interviewer extends their hand for a handshake, you can reciprocate. However, if they don't initiate a handshake or if they explicitly mention avoiding physical contact, it is best to respect their preferences and forgo the handshake. In such cases, a polite greeting or a verbal acknowledgment will suffice to establish a positive connection with the interviewer.
Cultural factors
Remember, etiquette may vary based on cultural norms and individual preferences can influence whether it's a good idea to shake hands at an interview.
Ultimately, there are several factors that impact whether it is appropriate to shake hands at an interview. It is important to be respectful and adaptable to the specific circumstances and guidelines provided by the organisation conducting the interview.
For more information regarding proper interview etiquette, click the button below to read our e-book on how to ace your interview.
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Now that you know whether you should shake hands at an interview, you should take a moment to check our current vacancies page.
At 11 Recruitment, we have a range of white-collar temp and perm jobs available. We're always on the lookout for top talent to place with our clients, so we encourage you to apply for any positions that are of interest.
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