Always shake hands with a firm handshake

Whether you are male or female, it is important to have a firm handshake.  If you happened to be a very large and strong handed man this does not mean you should try and crush the other parties hand.  Firm is important and key.

Women that hand over their hand like a 19th century Dutchess is rare these days and when it does happen, its odd, almost submissive.  A proper handshake with some firmness is very much the norm.  Some women try to overdo it and squeeze as hard as they can to overcome their natural slenderness and (often) weaker hands, overcompensating seems a bit desperate.

As a first impression a weak 'cold wet fish' handshake is a massive put off and says a great deal about an individual.  If you happen to have clammy hands then a solid grip should overcome that.  If nervous before a meeting or interview a quick rub/swipe on your suit jacket before you shake hands can do the trick.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so start off, with the simplest of gestures on a good note.

Cold wet fish