Etiquette of handshaking

A friend of mine likes to repeat that some palms are felt like fish. Perhaps, he means that it is unpleasant to shake a hand which is relaxed and does not wish to reply your open hearted and sincere shaking. So, let's speak about shaking etiquette.

In accordance with the etiquette, the women are to initiate handshaking if they are greeting a man or a woman. In India women do not shake hands to a man, but they are allowed to initiate it with another woman. In Brazil and Egypt, for example, if you shake somebody's hand, it is common to touch his shoulder or tip his elbow slightly. Italian people are really expressive and emotional. They can shake your hand as long as it is possible. In many countries people used to shake hands firmly keeping the eye contact. Affection and sincere face expression is important during this moment. It is better to turn your body to the interlocutor in order to show your sincerity. Facing a person you greet is considered to be a great sign for any relationships start. When two members of the family or friends are greeting each other, the rules are more democratic, as you see. At least you know this person very well and he is not be offended by breaking the rules sometimes. As for the women greeting, it is allowed to escape the rules, especially if you know this woman well. A man can touch both hands of a woman squeezing them gently, smiling and keeping firm eyes contact.