Four keys to successful anchoring

To make an anchor effective, provide the stimulus in a fully associated, congruent state.
If a person is distracted, the stimulus can be linked to different signals and states.

Provide the stimulus at the peak of the experience.
If you anchor other people, observe their bodies and faces to ensure you provide the stimulus when the feelings are most intense. You can also ask a person about their feelings.

Choose a unique stimulus. It has to provide the brain with a very clear signal that cannot be misunderstood.
If you choose a handshake, it has to have some unique details like strength, pressure, or location. If not, it won’t be effective because we shake hands frequently with many people. Using a combination of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic signals, such as a special look with some words and a unique tap or touch is recommended.

Always repeat the anchor in exactly the same way.
If you use another trigger (even something that is similar but not exactly the same), the anchor will not work.