correlation between quality of handshake and job offer or rejection

Nurses Professionalism

Published

Hello everyone, I had a job interview where it seemed the job was mine as far as the nurse recruiter was concerned. I went on to meet the director of the department who asked me few questions which I thought I answered very well. She asked me what shift I wanted and I told her even though I prefer days I will be open to work nights, she got upset about this and chastised me saying she didn't want anyone to threaten to quit if they weren't given day shift. She went on to say that if hired on nights and an opening on days was available, I will have to wait for my replacement to be hired and trained before transfering. At the end I thanked her and offered a handshake but what I got in return was the weakest, limpiest, and coldest handshakes ever. This got me thinking the director is not excited about me and I may be right because I have yet to hear from them after two days of leaving messages and I have a feeling they don't take that long to make their job offers. Has anyone had similar experience?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

I think you are probably reading it right. Next time just say "whatever you have open, I want". ;)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

I love the "researchy" title of this thread. It brings to mind the old adage -- correlation does not equate to causation. Just because two things may tend to occur at the same time does not 'prove' that they are actually connected at all.

In terms of handshakes, there probably is a relation between the quality of a handshake and the emotional state of the 'shakers'. But then, there could be many intervening / counfounding variables also... hand injury, upper motor neuron disease, fresh manicure, sweaty palms - LOL. Sorry - just had to go off on my research tangent because there are so few opportunities to do so here on AN.

Interview skills are just like every other learned behavior - gets better with appropriate practice. Consider each bad interview as a learning experience that is preparing you for 'the one' that will land you your dreeeaaaammmmmm job.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think the person who interviewed you may be mentally ill. Take what she said with a grain of salt. You were just being honest!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

Whether you get an offer or not, I do have to point out something.

Most managers want to fill the job with the best candidate, not just fill the spot with a warm body. You are rarely going to be the only candidate, and even if you do very well in the interview, there may be others to interview over the next week...or two.

Managers also have a lot on their plates, and filling a vacancy is only one of many tasks. Expecting a decision 2 days after an interview is not a realistic expectation.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I wouldn't be too upset if you do not get this job. It does not seem like this manager is a good "leader"...there are a lot of those in the nursing profession given that most managers have no formal training. It is getting better though.

ALWAYS state what you actually want BUT if you are really willing to work night shift until something opens up and "pay your dues" be sure to say that. However, if you really are not willing to work nights and are just telling the manager what they want to hear... you are in for a rough ride.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I was finally offered the job after a week of waiting. Maybe I was reading too much into the handshake, maybe not...I had another opportunity to shake the lady's hand in a less stressful and neutral environment and it was the same experience. So, I've decided to accept the offer(turned down two offers already)and hope the handshake is not a sign of things to come. Thanks everyone for your input.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment