How to Wave to Neighbors

Body language is another way to communicate our intentions to people we meet on the street and one of the most well-known body languages is waving. Waving is a universal in the United States, especially waving at people you don't know well, such as neighbors. If you want to wave at your neighbors, there are some things to keep in mind.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Keep the fingers together, single wrist movement when you want to say hi, but you don't want to chat. This is a nice way to let them know you see them, you acknowledge them, but not available to talk further.

2. Waggle your fingers up and down, with the palm out when waving at neighborhood children or older people. This is a friendly, non-intimidating way to wave at your neighbors.

3. Add a smile to your wave to give it an extra neighborly appeal, especially if you like your neighbors or want to be on good terms with them.

4. Try not to be offended if you wave to a neighbor from a European or Asian country and they give you a funny look. In their country, they may wave differently to Americans, and your friendly wave may not be so friendly to them.

5. Use all your fingers, no matter how you feel about them.

Resources

• National Academic Advising Association for more about body language.
• Teacher's Asian Summer Institute for more information about body langauge.