National Handshake Day
National Handshake Day is an annual celebration dedicated to recognizing the significance of handshakes as a universal gesture of greeting, respect, and goodwill.
Quick Facts
- When is it: Last Thursday of June
- Tagged as: Work & Career
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalHandshakeDay
- When was it founded: 2005
- Who founded it: Miryam Roddy, Professional Development Coach
History of National Handshake Day
The tradition began when Miryam Roddy, working at BRODY Professional Development, established this day to emphasize the importance of proper handshakes in professional relationships. The handshake itself dates back to ancient times, originally serving as a gesture to demonstrate peaceful intentions by showing empty hands without weapons.
Timeline
- 900 BC: First recorded handshake between Assyrian and Babylonian kings
- 1700s: Quakers popularized handshakes as an egalitarian greeting
- 2005: First National Handshake Day established
- 2020: Handshake traditions adapted due to global health concerns
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June | 26 |
| 2026 | June | 25 |
| 2027 | June | 24 |
| 2028 | June | 29 |
| 2029 | June | 28 |
Observed
The day is celebrated worldwide through professional networking events, business seminars, and social gatherings focusing on proper handshake etiquette.
Fun Facts About Handshakes
- The average handshake lasts approximately 3 seconds
- A proper handshake involves palm-to-palm contact with a firm but not crushing grip
- Different cultures have varying handshake customs
- The longest handshake record is over 15 hours
Quiz
- Who founded National Handshake Day?
- In which year was it established?
- What was the original purpose of handshakes?
(Answers: 1. Miryam Roddy 2. 2005 3. To show peaceful intentions)
FAQs
Q: Why is a handshake important?
A: It’s crucial for first impressions and building professional relationships.
Q: How long should a handshake last?
A: Typically 2-3 seconds with 2-3 pumps.
Importance of National Handshake Day
This day promotes professional etiquette, cultural understanding, and the value of personal connections in business and social interactions.
Related
- International Business Day
- Professional Development Day
- Global Networking Day
- Cultural Exchange Day
- Business Etiquette Day