The handshake many times serves as the first impression when meeting a person, so it's important. It is probably the most commonly used forms of non-verbal communication. Too firm of a handshake and you'll be perceived as being far too insistent on gaining approval or that you dislike the person, too soft and you'll be perceived as someone weak, vacillating or unreliable. A good handshake is firm but friendly. In the business world, it does make a difference.