| The purpose of this research was to investigate potential differences in perceptions of different kinds of handshakes between American, Japanese, and Saudi Arabia businesspersons. Specifically, the study focused on potential consequences of handshake delivery in business negotiations with representatives of different cultures (American, Japanese, and Saudi). Strength, duration, and handshake types were assessed on a sample of business representatives from these countries. The study demonstrated that there were, indeed, differences in how handshakes were perceived between individuals from different countries. Significant differences were noted between American, Japanese, and Saudi respondents regarding acceptable strength, duration, and different types of handshakes. Second, this study showed that handshakes represent a part of business etiquette that could be differently perceived across the nations in terms of value. Finally, the study showed some types of habitual handshakes could not be appropriate in certain countries. Despite the fact that this study was exploratory in nature, it could still provide some useful insights for businesses that are actively engaged in negotiations with foreign companies. The major recommendation for the companies is to include handshakes in the overall training program, while recommendations for the future research include studies with larger samples and representatives of different nations. |
