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   Greetings and Cultural Manners

 

When greeting immigrants, be conscious of your words and body language.
 

 

Greetings and Cultural Manners  

 
Brazil

A warm handshake is always good.
Among male friends, add an embrace, as they easily display emotion -

Women will often kiss one another on alternating cheeks, twice if they are married and three times if single.
The third kiss indicates "good luck" for finding a spouse
Germany When introduced to a German businessman, shake hands briefly.
When introduced to a German woman, wait to see if she extends her hand before offering to shake.
Bonus info: Germans are rather formal and reserved in public. Don't expect to see too many smiles while doing business.
Egypt Handshakes are common, but the grip is not as firm
Japan Handshakes are common, but the grip is not as firm.
The traditional greeting is a bow. If someone bows to you, observe carefully and bow to the same depth as you have been bowed to.
China Traditionally Chinese bow slightly or nod.
Although handshakes are common, it is suggested that you wait until someone extends his hand to you.
India The traditional Indian greeting is the Namaste: Hands are held below the chin in a praying position, there is a slight nod or bow, and the word Namaste (nah-mas tay) is said.
In large cities, men are very Westernized.
Western women, however, should not initiate a handshaking with women.
Spain Handshakes are common.
Good male friends will add a pat on the back or a hug.
Russia Russians generally shake hands.  Instead of saying, "How are you?" they will state their name.  You should do the same.
Last names (not first names) are generally uttered.
Mexico A handshake is common among men.
Women that are close friends may kiss one another on the cheek or hug. Otherwise, women will pat one another on the forearm
United States The smile, often accompanied by a nod or verbal greeting, is common. In most situations a firm handshake (not a weak handshake) is desirable.
"How are you" is not an inquiry about one's health, but an inquiry that is normally answered with, "Fine, thanks."
   
   
Sources:

Roger Axtell, Gestures
Morrison, and Borden's Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands: How to Do Business in Sixty Countries.
Capella University Class Notes

I thank my dear friend, JoAnne, who inspired me to create this page.