If you don’t rise to the occasion, you will sink in the estimation of others. Everyone should stand when being introduced. At one time women remained seated when new people arrived on the scene, but not nowadays. However, when newcomers arrive at a very large function, they are greeted only by those nearest them. If it is impossible for you to rise—if perhaps you are wedged behind the table—at least lean forward or rise slightly so as not to appear distant. When someone comes to visit at the office, stand and come out from behind your desk unless the visitor is a coworker or someone who comes into your office frequently in the course of the day. The frequency consideration comes into play even when a senior executive visits the office of a junior executive. If it’s a common occurrence, there’s no need to get up; however, you should certainly stop what you’re doing and give your full attention to the senior executive whenever you’re in his or her presence. A handshake leaves a very definite and often lasting impression, and in the business world a handshake is the only truly appropriate physical contact for both men and women. The proper shake …
Involves eye contact Is firm but painless Lasts about three seconds Takes only two or three pumps Starts and stops crisply Doesn’t continue through the entire introduction
Keep your fingers together and your thumb up. Slide the web of your hand all the way to the web of the other person’s hand. Otherwise, he or she ends up shaking hands with your fingers. Also, shaking web to web effectively prevents the other person, no matter how strong, from crunching your knuckles. You shake when …
Someone offers his/her hand to you First meeting someone Greeting guests Greeting your host/hostess Renewing an acquaintance Saying goodbye
In general, hugs and kisses are inappropriate in any business environment. In fact, touching others in the workplace, whether they are of the same gender or not, is impolite even if you feel that the other person is your pal. This stricture includes patting someone on the back, putting your arm around someone, or putting your hand on his or her shoulder. It is acceptable at a business/social function to kiss your spouse, if you happen to be getting along that day. Even then, keep it casual and cursory.
