Hand? Cheek? Both? … Neither?
As a very poor reader of visual social cues, I’ve developed a maxim to save me from ‘meet-ups’:
‘Being a writer, I’m better in print than in person.’
Yet sometimes business requires me to deal with clients or suppliers face to face.
This fraught activity threw up a curly one a while back:
When greeting a woman in a business context, under what circumstances (if any)
should you shake hands or kiss her?
On this occasion, I got it half right.
Alas, the wrong bit haunted me long.
I’m hoping you can guide my (our?) future forays into female flesh.
Cheeky
I’d been persuaded to meet two fairly-sexed representatives of a key client.
As usual, I arrived at the bar early enough to work myself into a nervous lather.
By the time the businesswomen arrived, I was eyeing the exits.
The first lady – a particularly sunny soul – strode up, grabbed my waist with both hands and pulled me close for a big, warm smacker on the cheek.
It was charming, but shockingly unexpected.
Reeling, thinking of my wife and reasoning that the safest course was emulation, I turned to her colleague to follow suit.
At my first touch, the second woman stiffened visibly. I actually felt her body lock up. Wide-eyed, she slanted an icy cheek at me, from which I promptly slid.
Jilted
Utterly flummoxed by these extreme social climate events, I struggled through the meeting vowing never again to go within 2 km of a female associate.
While my further dealings with the first woman remained as happy as ever, things with the second went from bad to worse.
This saddened me, as I’d tendered an abject apology for missing my cue.
Over the coming months, we drifted further apart … until one day I woke and she was gone.
Kiss & tell
As this is so not my scene, I’m totally relying on you to set me straight.
Whether you’re male or female, young or old, on either side of the commercial fence, I beg you to table your views on manual vs oscular interaction.
Is kissing ever on?
If so, when?
If not, but the other party puckers up, what the hell are you supposed to do?!
What about staff, bosses and co-workers?
What if there’s one of you and ten of them?
What of cultural considerations?
And what about farewells, team drinks, milestone celebrations and xmas parties?
Collated, your tips will form the ultimate interactive guide for our utility and pleasure.
So thanks for your help in advance.
…
MWAH!
?

Author
Micky Stuivenberg
July 10, 2012 at 1:33 pm
Haha, oh no, poor Paul.
This is a fantastic topic though, I can’t wait to read everyone’s comments! I’m not leaving any tips myself, sorry. I wasn’t born here and because I’ve lived in a number of countries with completely different cultures, I’m possibly even more confused than you as to what’s expected and how/whether to reciprocate – even with friends and acquaintances sometimes.
Good luck!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 10, 2012 at 1:35 pm
You bugger, Micky! Now I’m DYING to know what you’ve learnt in your travels. If you don’t cough something up, I may have to summon Ita! http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/books/forget-etiquette-now-its-itaquette-20110205-1ahmh.html
Author
Micky Stuivenberg
July 10, 2012 at 1:46 pm
OK quickly then, I lived in Hong Kong and then Singapore for nearly 8 years. Doing business there is much more formal than here. Meeting new people in a business setting involved a nod of the head and a polite greeting, only seldom a handshake (which could be because I’m female) and never any other physical contact. Presenting business cards, held with two hands with the text facing the other party was also quite important, I remember. At least you knew what the “rules” were and it was easy to stick to them. I agree that here in Australia, things are often so casual that the distinction between business associates and friends can get blurred. I would never think to kiss a client but would try not to be taken aback too much if that client kissed me. I guess drawing conclusions from the actions of one person and applying them to the next is where things turned sour for you…
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 10, 2012 at 1:48 pm
Thank you, Micky. It’s really kind of you to heed the call. I got a lot from your words and strongly suspect others will too.
Author
Catherine White
July 10, 2012 at 1:37 pm
Oh my, you do sound like a confused male. To be fair, the opposite sex need to bear (or is it bare) their share of responsibility for sending mixed signals.
To make matters even more complex, the Germans have called for a ban on kissing in the work place, and the French dance cheek to cheek.
I’ve never been terribly bothered by a male colleague offering a kiss on the cheek, but I would be uncomfortable with other body parts touching, during the order of the peck.
Between colleagues, I think cheek to cheek is elegant, which often becomes a simple peck between familiar acquaintances. Even so, cheek to cheek with familiar friends signals respect for each others boundaries, and status.
In this instance with your frosty female colleague, I’m afraid you will just have to turn the other cheek.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 10, 2012 at 1:43 pm
What a brilliant comment, Catherine. Seems you write as well as you photograph!
Yes I’m confused. How I wish I could say I never touched her, Your Honour …
I’m grateful for your handy hints.
And your very funny pun.
Best regards, P.
Author
Oliver Escott
July 10, 2012 at 2:58 pm
I’ve got a simple policy- handshakes for everyone, male and female. Then, if your particularly close business female friends (or men friends for that matter) demand a peck, they can instigate and you can happily oblige. You will always come off as the good guy with this policy.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 12:39 pm
That’s a fine policy, Oliver! And while I’m slightly offended by your use of the potentially gender-specific term ‘guy’, I think the merit of your suggestion may carry the day. Many thanks indeed!
Author
Desolie Page
July 10, 2012 at 4:25 pm
I know how you feel about meeting people face to face: I’m much more comfortable tucked away with my computer or editor’s green pen.
Like Catherine, I think we ladies have confused our poor male colleagues…yet again. So I try to set the tone by extending my hand when meeting a new client, male or female. That sometimes changes as the relationship develops, especially with ladies. I think, like Micky, I would be a bit taken aback by more than a handshake from a this-is-the-first-time-I’ve-met-you male client or business associate.
Needless to say, come the day that I meet you, expect (at least) a peck on the cheek
I’ll be trying to curtail expression of my excitement when the business book I’ve just edited is launched, as I’ve really enjoyed working with the author.
I’ll be back to benefit from the opinions of the amazing people who inhabit your blog.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 10, 2012 at 4:35 pm
You’re so kind, Desolie; you use a gentle green pen, while I have a sharp, nasty red one!
Thanks for sharing your wonderfully frank views. I feel very warmly disposed towards you too and promise not to run screaming from the room if ever we find ourselves in the same one.
Please let us know when that book launches; I’d love to see what you’ve been up to. With best regards and a respectful touch on the elbow to augment my handshake. P.
Author
Desolie Page
July 10, 2012 at 4:44 pm
‘Customer Delight’ will have its official launch on 16 August, but is available *now* at http://www.customerdelight.com.au Alain is walking around in a glowing bubble just now.
With a very warm smile and hearty handshake… Desolie
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 10, 2012 at 5:43 pm
Ah, good show Desolie! Many thanks for that!
Author
Malcolm Owens
July 11, 2012 at 11:33 am
Hi Paul,
The answer is easy. Treat women in business as you would a man. I always offer to shake a woman’s hand as I do a man. I don’t understood the need to kiss someone I dont know – for what purpose?
Equally don’t shake the men’s hands and then ignore the ladies.
I may kiss on the cheek someone I know VERY well and usually hang back a bit to see if they are extending their hand or coming in for a kiss. If in doubt always shake their hand and leave expressions of affection for your friends and family.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 11:41 am
This is a very handy guide, Malcolm!
I used to treat women exactly like men, but eventually got pulled up for calling them ‘Mate’.
Maybe I should treat men with more decorum.
Micky sure nailed it when she said Aussies are more casual. While I’m a big fan of this, it can lead to misunderstandings.
Thanks very much for guiding my hand, Chieftan!
Author
Adam Finlay
July 11, 2012 at 11:46 am
I’m with Malcolm. A hand shake all around. It’s only colleagues who have become friends that might get the occasional peck, but even then it would be after hours and probably outside the office – a farewell drink or party etc. Likewise I’ll stand up to meet and greet someone, man or woman, and hold the door open for anyone, man or woman or beast. I feel for you, Paul. How awkward!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 11:54 am
I do like this advance to clarity, Ad!
Please accept this shoulder rub, free $100 ladies’-night-bring-a-girlfriend-all-you-can-drink card and signed packet of iced VoVos.
Ever yours,
Frou Frou.
Author
Malcolm Owens
July 11, 2012 at 11:51 am
Yes you cant call a woman mate but darl, love or sweetie are worse! We have some young women working with us and some of the older hands that have been with the business 30+ years do this and it drives them mad!
It applies to men also. We have a gentlemen here who loves to reduce people’s names to football club slang – Bill Davies becomes ‘Davo’ and Gary Smith becomes ‘Gazza’, ‘Gags’ or ‘Smithy’. In a professional sense people really dislike it and watch out if you call me ‘Mal’ because you will be told.
If it’s not too politcally incorrect to say so, Im suprised Micky didnt recieve more kisses in Hong Kong, my experience has been that such formalities fall away in the presence of a very attractive woman!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 11:58 am
I hear you, M! ‘Luv’ and ‘Darl’ totally scramble my CorrectPlayDar.
I know you’ve spent a lot of time in Honkers, so I think the weight of your experience ought to transcend any unintentional impropriety.
Though we are liable to be nailed to the floorboards if Micky decides to sue.
Micky, please accept this signed packed of iced VoVos …
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 12:04 pm
Re-reading your comment, Malcolm, I realise you’re saying that the blokes use those terms.
I get confused when women use them on me!
I have noticed in this season of Masterchef that the male judges address the female contestants as ‘sweetheart’, ‘girl’ and other potentially demeaning terms which, while ostensibly friendly, still strike clangers on my old EEO antennae.
I wonder what the sheilas reading this think of it all …
Author
Micky Stuivenberg
July 12, 2012 at 1:02 pm
What’s up with those iced VoVos Paul? I had to look up what they were and have to say I’ve never had one before. Is it worth trying? Or is this some in-joke that I’m not getting?
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 1:10 pm
They’re pretty good, Micky. Give ‘em a shot! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iced_Vo_Vo
I use iced VoVo’s as a device to convey the stereotypical feminine: sweet, fluffy, pink, delicate.
While I sure don’t agree with assigning colour to gender, I use them half in jest and half to remind us that not all women are ‘girly girls’.
Typing this rationale, however, I realise all this happened in my head, with not a word of explanation to you, the reader. Sorry about that!
And I reckon ADAM is subtle … !
Author
Micky Stuivenberg
July 12, 2012 at 1:01 pm
Haha, don’t worry about political correctness Malcolm. Thanks for the compliment, I guess.
But no, back in the nineties when I lived in Hong Kong, although I received my share of unwanted attention and physical contact on the packed-like-sardines MTR (train), I can’t remember any greetings-with-kisses in a work setting.
Oh and don’t get me started on the use of darl, love and sweetheart here in Australia. Honestly, that’s something I don’t think I’ll ever get used to. “Here’s your change, sweetheart” from a waitress I don’t know who’s half my age. What’s up with that?
There’s one guy who sometimes refers work to me who calls me “mate” on the phone, which surprises me every time he does it but I actually like it. No special treatment, everyone on the same level. As it should be.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 1:14 pm
You’re such a good sport, Micky! Was it you who tweeted yesterday that your husband was smashing his basement punching bag so hard that your whole house was shaking? If so, Malcolm better watch his step!
I’m so pleased you’re OK with ‘Mate’. One of my female clients called me this morning and I used it without thinking. She was cool with it too. It’s such a wonderful equaliser: why not?
With best regards and kind thanks for your further thoughts.
Author
Adam Finlay
July 11, 2012 at 11:59 am
Mal, sweetie, you’re a doll. An un-PC doll, perhaps, but a doll.
Author
Malcolm Owens
July 11, 2012 at 12:02 pm
Thanks Pookie.
Author
Jason
July 11, 2012 at 12:03 pm
Hi,
My opinions are more or less in line with those of Adam.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 12:05 pm
Thanks Jas. I assume you’re already fixed for iced VoVos?
Author
Malcolm Owens
July 11, 2012 at 12:13 pm
I could go an iced VoVo right now. Glad to see I have the first two members of my new fan club signed up. That’s the price of fame for us self-styled gurus.
Author
Adam Finlay
July 11, 2012 at 12:22 pm
Jason, what is the ‘more’ part and what is the ‘less’ part?!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 12:24 pm
I think they cancel each other out, don’t they?
Author
Adam Finlay
July 11, 2012 at 12:32 pm
Aah, indeed they do, Paul. I suppose I was making a subtle point that ‘correct’ behaviour here is knife-edged. Let’s shake hands and be friends.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 12:37 pm
That was subtle alright. I always miss those.
Friends sound like hard work. What’s your budget?
Author
CG
July 11, 2012 at 9:20 pm
Paul, off topic but it’s similar: what about initial telephone communications?
For example, I answered the phone at work this morning (DVD hire) in the accepted manner: “XX (business name), CG (my full name) speaking.” The woman on the other end responded with: “Good morning. How are you today?” in a American accent. My immediate reaction was that this was a telemarketer trying to sell me something – we get lots of those calls, especially from telcos; businesses cannot have their names on the ‘do not call’ register.
So my response was a rather frosty “How can I help you?”, meaning “What are you trying to sell to me?” It turned out that it was a signed-up customer wishing to know whether we had a copy of a particular film. I felt bad then about having been so cool towards her and apologized, to which she responded, “Oh, my friends are always telling me I sound like a cold caller!”
Is this an Australian/American difference, or am I betraying my English background? Had I been the one initiating the call I would have gone straight on from receiving the greeting to say something like,”I’m ringing to ask whether you have a copy of film X available for hire.”
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 11, 2012 at 9:31 pm
Dear CG, please rest assured there’s no ‘off topic’ on this blog; merely fascinating tangents upon which we’ve not yet spun.
Your case study is interesting. I too go frosty at unsolicited enquiries re my well-being. It’s sad we’ve become so paranoid.
I feel for that woman; fancy being ‘known’ for sounding like that!
I’ve formed the impression that many outsourced (now called off-shored) jobs go to countries whose telemarketers learn English via US materials and instructors. With these come the accent. That could be part of the problem.
I loathe ‘chit chat’ and always prefer to cut to the chase. But I have it on good authority that this isn’t always the best way to proceed in business. Those who know me say I’d LOVE Switzerland: neat, clean, ordered … with not a syllable wasted.
Sorry that I’m rambling, CG. It’s such a nebulous topic. I’m hoping that other readers may be able to make more sense of your data.
Either way, I’m grateful that you tabled it. Best regards, P.
Author
Winston Marsh
July 12, 2012 at 3:07 am
I think Malcolm has expressed my view… treat both sexes the same which means you shake hands.
However, I should add, as I am now in my dotage, I seem to be gently embracing both woman and men for a friendly hug… their initiation or mine. Maybe it’s coz they don’t expect to see me around too far into the future. So maybe it’s more of a farewell than a greeting!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 5:23 am
I’m very pleased to get your view, Winston – especially in light of the thousands upon thousands of business greetings you’ve participated in over the decades.
You raise a very interesting point re age. Some of the more mature people I liaise with are reporting that they’re becoming far more emotional as time passes. The slightest thing can move them to tears these days.
Strange how life becomes all the more precious as its finite nature progressively reveals. Our dear old doggies are in double figures now. We take every chance to treasure them while they’re here.
Thanks very much for your thought-provoking contribution. Given your self discipline and exercise regime, I’m confident you’ll be with us for many years to come. I sure hope so, as you’re a valued stalwart of this forum. Best regards, P.
Author
Catherine White
July 12, 2012 at 6:11 am
Such a variety of opinions, and context. What I find interesting is cheek to cheek is acceptable among world leaders, yet on the ground, in English speaking countries anyway, the question of protocol arises.
The correct form of leaning forward, (and depending on the country or situation) a hand shake or hug at the same time accompanies a cheek to cheek, which may or may not include the lips.
Personally, I think we’re all too wired, indeed the above response to a genuine caller at a video store is a case in point.
With the passing of years, priorities do change, as does one’s outlook on life. What ruffled my feathers 15 – 20 years ago, is now inconsequential.
Thanks for the interesting conversation darl. XX
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 6:17 am
You’re quite a catch, Catherine. I’m getting a great deal from your thoughts on this topic.
Remember when our Prime Minister touched our Queen? By gum there was a kerfuffle.
I agree our wiring is overdone and overheating. I daren’t even look sideways at the truck driver who cuts me off in traffic lest he take to my bike with a bat.
Thank you very much indeed for your return visit. I hope we see you again soon!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 6:24 am
Geez, you don’t half get around either! http://www.cathrinewhitephotography.com/www/main.html
Author
Catherine White
July 12, 2012 at 7:25 am
Oh noooooo that’s not me, that’s another Catherine White, who spells her name Cathrine (without the e) I have the .com for my name, just not launched the site yet. That’s in the works, in fact all but finished, but I resist paying hosting fees unless I’m sure it will work for me. I see others paying hosting fees, but know full well the conversion isn’t what one hoped for. Catherine White, there’s a of us, but I’m glad to report I’ve got my internet territory covered.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 7:33 am
I’m SO sorry, Catherine! It took me ages to track down that site as I wanted to showcase your work.
When I clicked around http://about.me/catherinewhitephotography I just kept getting invitations to join about.me. I thought I could do ‘better’.
[Lauren, could you please dive under the MYOB blog hood and correct my faux pas wih Catherine's correct URL?]
With sincere apologies for stuffing up. P.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 12, 2012 at 7:37 am
PS: VERY nice work on claiming your intramanet turf. As you can see, I’m a fan of that:
http://practicalsocialmediatips.wordpress.com/2009/12/29/social-media-spot-check/
If you’re casting round for a good hosting guy, I can heartily recommend this chap: http://myob.com.au/blog/a-new-age-of-empire/
Author
Tash Hughes
July 13, 2012 at 10:24 am
Bit late to this conversation but that’s never stopped me before
Early in my busienss life, I read that you should always shake a man’s hand but wait for a woman to indicate if she wishes her hand shaken (as prior ettiquette was only men shook hands). Being a woman I took that as a sign I should always extend my hand quickly to save men worrying about offending me by offering to shake my hand.
I would feel very strange if someone gave me a kiss the first time we met in a business setting. And then awkward with how to deal with the second person in that meeting so I don’t think you did anything wrong Paul – it could have gone either way (if you hadn’t kissed her she may have been miffed you kissed her partner and not her).
I have one client who greets me with a kiss – she is interstate so I don’t see her often and we are friends so it’s fine. But generally, kissing business associates doesn’t feel right… However, I am with Desolie and would expect a peck on the check when I meet you Paul
Call me mate and I might be surprised but not at all worried; call me darl or luv and I’m not so happy – unless you are some 70 year old sweet man, lol! I have been known to use mate for kids I’ve cared for where sweetie or such seems wrong and I don’t want gender stereostypes coming into it.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 13, 2012 at 3:15 pm
Great stuff, Tash. Every time you help join our dots, we never end up with a donkey. Many thanks for colouring this debate with your perspective!
Author
Yvonne
July 17, 2012 at 9:01 am
Great post Paul! Thought I would share. I’m a hugger
when I meet men and women for the very first time I usually go with my intuition as to whether this is appropriate and how I feel. I usually shake hands first and at the end give a hug. Now in a business setting this can sometimes lead to me being a wee bit embarrassed if they are not comfortable with hugs.
I can live with that. I am myself now and if someone doesn’t like it, they can tell me or they can decide to run for the hills. We will never please 100% of people, 100% of the time.
For men, I would suggest hand shake with men and women until maybe you both felt comfy going in for a hug. Don’t think I have ever kissed a man at a first meeting. For all I know he has a jealous lover lurking in the bushes ready to pounce
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 17, 2012 at 9:09 am
Thank you, Yvonne. You certainly come across as a very warm person in your excellent video blog.
It’s hard to imagine anyone being TOO upset at your advances, as you seem a very straight shooter too.
Thanks for sharing your approach and supporting us with a Twitter retweet.
I almost NEVER do this, but …
…
*hugz*
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 17, 2012 at 9:15 am
I particularly like this offering:
http://www.safespacecoaching.com/1/post/2012/06/coaching-idea-of-the-week9.html
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 18, 2012 at 8:46 am
A thought-provoking piece from Bettina Arndt:
http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/dont-let-the-prudes-deprive-us-of-the-spice-of-sexual-banter-20120717-228cs.html
Author
Bettina Arndt
July 18, 2012 at 11:50 am
Thanks, Paul. It is creating quite a stir. But good to see some debate on an issue which is far from black and white.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 18, 2012 at 11:59 am
Thanks so much for stopping by, Bettina! I imagine you’re swamped with feedback today so I really appreciate your time.
I’ve admired your preparedness to speak (and write) up for decades and it’s an honour to see you here today. Best regards, P.
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 18, 2012 at 12:01 pm
PS. If you happen to know a secret codeword for summoning Ita, I’d be much obliged!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
July 18, 2012 at 10:30 am
… And another fine piece flagged by Micky @contentwriteroz
http://www.smartcompany.com.au/leadership/050750-what-your-handshake-says-about-you.html
Nice. Thank you, Micky!
Author
Paul Hassing Founder & Senior Writer - The Feisty Empire
August 10, 2012 at 8:17 am
I must say I agree with this analysis:
http://www.dailylife.com.au/health-and-fitness/why-are-elite-athletes-still-being-called-girls-20120809-23vth.html