My girlfriend enjoys introducing me to seemingly everybody she knows, which is fine with me. With her grandmother and stepmom, I usually greet them both with a hug and I kiss them on the cheek out of politeness and respect. However, with everyone else, how do I know when a handshake is sufficient or if I should go the additional step? Is there a definite answer or is it just situational?
Keep in mind this is from a relationship and personal perspective, obviously, etiquette changes if a professional meeting, etc.
2006-08-23 14:40:08 · 7 answers · asked by dshcpa 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
what about her aunt, her stepsister...you never want to offend anyone but when it does start to feel awkward at a point (her stepsister's boyfriends' mom? her stepmom
s mother...) We've been dating for half a year and not even a proposal is in the near future
2006-08-23 14:49:22 · update #1
Sorry, I realize now that culture also has a lot to do with it...the family is Italian and Irish (ofcourse, any percentage of Italian and you ARE Italian:)
2006-08-24 02:19:01 · update #2
Hug and kiss on the cheek for grandma and stepmom is great, and a handshake is sufficient for everyone else. Different families have different mores. In some families, everyone hugs and kisses everyone. In other families, they never hug and kiss each other. It isn't really a problem for you as you aren't part of the family, just a friend of a family member, so you don't have to go overboard.
Just do what's comfortable, and yes, it is a situational thing. If everyone is hugging, then of course you will hug too, but if not, then don't feel that you are being cold or standoff-ish if you aren't gladhanding and grabbing everyone.
You sound like a very sensitive young man. Good on you!
2006-08-23 17:15:52 · answer #1 · answered by old lady 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I echo the "whatever you are confortable with". Also, be receptive to their body language. if they offer a hug, and you are ok with that, accept it. Ditto for the kiss on the cheek. Most older ladies would love a kiss on the cheek from a nice young man; probably more appropriate on "goodbye" after you've spent some time after meeting them. If they're uncomfortable and pull away slightly don't pursue it; if they lean towards you on the way out you've obviously made a good impression- go for the peck. It's cultural in many areas.
2006-08-23 15:21:16 · answer #2 · answered by Hauntedfox 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hmm, unsure i've got carried out that, have self belief it or no longer (and that i've got between the worst suggestions interior the historical past of worst suggestions lol). i'm able to think of that it could be extraordinarily annoying however. only supply in and kick your self already; you deserve it! (Kidding :P) Have an extremely-remarkable, magnificently marvelous, and energizingly impressive night! (did no longer make too lots experience yet I went with it besides) Lbee
2016-11-05 12:03:06 · answer #3 · answered by dopico 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are so many cultural factors that go into this. We really don't have enough information. Different cultures and different families will have different expectations. There's not an easy answer.
2006-08-23 19:02:11 · answer #4 · answered by drshorty 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A handshake and/or a smile is sufficient. :)
2006-08-23 14:41:37 · answer #5 · answered by just julie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
jane doe is correct . whichever you are most at ease with .
cheers !
2006-08-23 14:48:40 · answer #6 · answered by BIGG AL 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
whatever your comfortable with
2006-08-23 14:46:36 · answer #7 · answered by Jane Doe 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋