This was originally posted on QP and Eye: My father believed in the power of first impressions.  He accepted, that as he appraised someone for the first time, so they would similarly judge him. When I meet someone for the first time my father’s voice reminds me, “Always make eye contact, smile, dress smart and shake hands with firm enthusiasm.” A weak handshake was a symptom of insecurity and feebleness that would almost certainly be manifest in other aspects of a person’s personality, according to my father.  While I may not entirely agree with his view, I am put off by cold, weak or limp handshakes. read more