How to Greet a Man

Hug, kiss, shake hands, smile, back-slap or a playful punch--when it comes to greeting a man, there are many options. Choose the wrong one and you could seem either cold and impersonal or inappropriately affectionate. Greeting etiquette can be tricky, but if you approach it thoughtfully, you're bound to send the right message.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Shake hands with strangers you've just been introduced to, whether you are in a social or business setting. The exception to this rule is rare: a stranger you expect to have an acrimonious relationship with, such as the opposing counsel in a messy lawsuit, does not require a handshake.
2. Shake hands firmly with business associates you don't see on a daily basis, whether they are clients, potential employers, potential employees or colleagues from different divisions. For your every day co-workers, a very quick handshake, smile and wave or friendly nod is fine.
3. Assess your relationship with male friends, as well as how long it's been since you last saw them, before greeting them. A half-hug or slap on the back is a warm way to say hello to buddies you see regularly, while a full hug or shoulder squeeze is in order for close friends you haven't seen in months or more. Women may greet male friends with a kiss and hug.
4. Consider the occasion of your greeting. At a wedding, Christening, bris or engagement party, hugs, back slaps and warm, firm handshakes convey congratulations. Women kiss or hug men in these special situations. If you run into a male friend or colleague at a supermarket, a wave and a warm, "Hi there!" will suffice.
5. Follow your non-verbal greeting with a verbal one. "How are you?" is always polite. You also can't go wrong with, "It's good to see you."

Tips & Warnings

• Don't kiss men, unless they are extremely close family members or intimate acquaintances. American men typically do not kiss each other in greeting.
• Be conscious of foreign traditions when greeting someone of another culture. Some foreigners might be uncomfortable with physical contact, while others, especially Europeans, expect it.