Farewell to the Handshake

​Greetings are forever changed. Due to the invisible enemy called Coronavirus, humans will no longer be able to grasp each other's hands as a symbol of mutual respect and admiration. Just as September 11, 2001 changed the manner in which Americans continued their daily lives, so will the post COVID-19 society. 
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So what will take the place of a handshake? Over the years we’ve seen the adoption of the “fist-pump”, the 80’s “high-five” and the 90’s Oakland A’s “arm bashing”. Maybe nothing at all. Maybe the post corona people will bow to each other, or simply nod in recognition. 

But what will we lose? Is touching another human being at all beneficial? As a private investigator I’ve developed the skill of reading people by their nonverbal cues. Oftentimes, I read their eyes, their body behavior or how they carry themselves. With various interactions I’ve been able to learn a lot from the way one shakes my hand. Whether its firm, soft, limp, turned to the right, or early release says much about the person's attitude and behavior. For example, someone who rotates their hand slightly after grasping mine so that their hand rests on top, is an indication they want to exert dominance. Conversely, if the grasp is limp, or not completely web to web, this may be an indication of lack of confidence or uneasiness in their current environment. 

Thus, people like me that rely on nonverbal cues will sorely miss this tool. On the other hand, not having to touch another person's nasty hand may prevent possible death from the invisible enemy...so that’s a good thing. -RJD  

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