Handshake etiquette and rules

This greeting ritual is accepted in modern etiquette for both men and women.

But the question arises as to when it is appropriate and who extends their hand to whom first:

1. The right hand is always extended for a handshake, including left-handers.
2. The hand should not be relaxed, but it should not squeeze the other person’s palm too much.
3. The person to whom someone is being introduced extends their hand first. The same rule is accepted for those who are older or higher in position.
4. A similar etiquette rule provides for how a lady should behave with a man when meeting: she decides for herself whether to shake hands.
5. If a group of men meets, then everyone usually exchanges similar ritual greetings. If there is only one acquaintance in a group (a small group), everyone still shakes hands.
6. When several couples meet, first the women greet each other and the men, then the men greet everyone.

In Muslim society, handshakes between women and men are not allowed unless they are close relatives.