Turkey
In Turkey, a strong hand shake is considered to be rude. Also, hand shakes can last quite a while- don’t be alarmed by the prolonged grip- it’s a sign of trust and friendship.
China
When shaking hands in China with more than one person, be sure you go for the eldest first. Shake with a firm grip and a slight bow. Avoid eye contact, hold, then release.
Philippines
Shaking hands in the Philippines is significantly different than in China, because a weak grip is encouraged, a bow is discouraged, and eye contact is a must.
Kenya
Shake the hands of an elder person by grasping their right wrist with your left hand.
South Korea
Shake the hand of the eldest person in the room first. Ensure that your free hand isn’t kept in your pocket. It’s considered very polite to use your free hand to grasp their right arm.
Australia
In Australia, if you are a woman, you typically don’t shake hands with other women. Hand shakes are firm and quick.
Mexico
In Mexico, handshakes are often quite prolonged. Men typically hug each other as well. Women will often kiss each other on the cheek.
France
A handshake in France is typically very quick and consists of an incredibly light grip. If you are close with the person you’re meeting with, a kiss on each cheek works fine.
Norway
In Norway it is customary to greet each person with a firm handshake and their full name.
Thailand
Shaking hands is typically non-existent in Thailand. Rather, people greet each other by placing their palms together in front of their chest and offering a short bow.
Russia
In Russia you typically do not shake the hands of a woman if you’re a man. Instead, you will kiss their hand. Men shaking the hands of other men will use an incredibly strong grip.
Morocco
Handshakes are very gentle. If you are a man and are shaking the hand of a woman, you must wait until she presents her hand first.
U.A.E.
Start by shaking the hand of the eldest in the room. Greet them by their title, and do not release until they do.
Brazil
In Brazil it is customary for handshakes to be quite a bit firmer and longer than we’re used to in North America. Strong and long eye contact is considered proper. When greeting a woman, a kiss on each cheek is preferred.
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