What's the etiquette?

Question

Let's say I am at a business meeting where food has been served and we are eating while we meet. Someone arrives late and offers to shake my hand. This seems very unsanitary and inconvenient for me if I have excuse myself to wash my hands again. Can I claim a a handshake exemption in this case?

Answer 1

It is considered rude to refuse a handshake (unless your hands are obviously busy or dirty). I would just go ahead and shake the newcomer's hand, then go wash my hands. (You might consider carrying some sanitizing wipes in your pocket or bag).

So glad to see people concerned about etiquette. It is becoming a very rude world.

Answer 2

Sure, just say, "Sorry, my hands are sticky from lunch, nice to meet you." And offer him a seat or some food by way of distraction. That way, you don't have to excuse yourself to go wash your hands after you shake hands with him.
But consider, if you are eating with a fork and spoon, you won't be spreading germs to your mouth, and if this is a person who out ranks you, you might want to shake his hand, and deal with the germs later..
Carry some individual handi wipe packets in your briefcase, they are discreet, you could wipe your hands off before and after you shake hands without making a scene. And if this person is really business savy, he won't be offering to shake your hand at a food is being served situation, he might say, "I don't want to interupt your meal, I'll shake hands after lunch".
Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I heard of it but I don't know for sure. Whatever the etiquette says, I would not shake the dirty hand and eat after.

Answer 4

You have to give up the paw if they see that you are eating. Unless of course you are eating with your hands, this is filthy and shouldn't be done in a meeting.