Saying Goodbye to the Handshake

With no vaccine available for Covid19, people are finding ways to protect themselves and are practicing social distancing.  With social distancing comes the absence of a formal greeting, such as hugs and kisses and/or a handshake.

 

 

As the US begins to open business again and people start to interact, there will be an awkward moment when you realize that you have to greet the person walking towards you.  What should you do?  Below are a few suggestions to navigate that possible awkward moment.

1.    Don’t just ignore the person that walks up and extends their hand.  Be sure and acknowledge the person and provide a quick nod of the head.  Provide a nice greeting as you take one step back.

2.   Try using the fist bump.  This type of greeting transfers significantly fewer microbes than the handshake. However, people could use the back of their hand to wipe their face or mouth, so be sure and wash your hands afterwards.

3.  The newest gesture is a foot bump.  People have begun tapping toes when they meet to say hello or welcome.  Make sure that the other person knows what you are doing or this could be interpreted as a hostile gesture.

4.  Another greeting  that has been around for a while is the elbow bump.  Your elbows may be far enough away from your hands that it could provide an alternative.  Remember to use the back of your elbow.  Some people might have sneezed or coughed into the front of their elbow and this could cause microbes to linger.  

5.  A simple bow or head nod while bowing can also send a welcome gesture.  Some people may also have their hands clapped together, hold them near their heart, and bow slightly.  

 

With so many possibilities, a simple smile and hello might be the simplest and safest answer.