Considerations & Exceptions for Impressive Handshakes * Be mindful of a person's age; be tender with arthritic hands. In that case, a loose and gentler handshake is a gesture of sensitivity and compassion. * Show interest; even if your right hand is full, offer your left hand. * Demonstrate respect when you are caught in an introduction while seated; try to stand. * Be instinctive about when to allow the length of your handshake to linger to express unity, connection, or sympathy.