What is a nice way to get around the hand shaking thing? I just hate it when someone puts out their hand for me to shake and I don't want to hurt their feelings, so I shake it.
The thing is, I don't like to shake people's hands, because I know way too many people who don't wash their hands like they ought to.
Help me! I don't want to be rude, but I don't want to pick up all their gross germs either! What can I say to get out of it???
2007-10-17 13:16:02 · 11 answers · asked by animal lover 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Yes, I realize that there are germs everywhere, but I have developed ways of avoiding them as much as possible, although I realize they can't all be avoided. Yes, I use that sanitizer too, but the main problem is that most of those things are inanimate objects whose feelings are not hurt if I avoid them.
I am trying to know what to do about the PEOPLE - and thank you for all of the suggestions that have come up.
And yes, I admit, I am a bit on the obsessive compulsive side -- but you would be too if you had been through what I have been through involving other people's germs. I am not going to go into detail, but it is an issue for me at this point in my life.
But thank you all for what you have suggested so far, I really appreciate it!
2007-10-19 07:18:37 · update #1
I've heard it once or twice before from people,
just say, "I'm sorry I don't shake hands"
then if they look at you funny or ask why just say, "I'm very susceptable to catching colds "
most people accept this fine (I've heard Trump doesn't shake hands, don't know if it's true for sure, but it's been rumored)
2007-10-17 13:22:49 · answer #1 · answered by Buzz B 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Buzz B has it right, though I might add that if you're absolutely stuck shaking hands, say in a business or professional setting where you need to make a good impression, grasp their wrist instead. You can also make sure to swipe some hand sanitizer on your hands when the person leaves the room. I completely sympathize, I hate shaking hands too.
2007-10-17 20:30:55 · answer #2 · answered by dolce 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like you are a bit obsessive compulsive but if you choose not to shake hands then just graciously say you prefer not. No need for further explanations and don't make a big deal out of it. With that said, not shaking hands isn't the only problem you must have with your germ issues. Do you wear gloves? All door handles, doors in fact, chairs, furniture, desks, everything carries bacteria. Nothing is free of it. Our immune systems learn to adjust accordingly and takes care of us.
2007-10-17 22:07:52 · answer #3 · answered by dawnb 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
first off you can def get more germs from touching railings, chairs etc etc.... but regardless... most people get the point if you quickly give them a wave kinda like as if you were across the room and couldn't shake their hand.... i think shaking hands is just one of things in life you really cant get around.... i would get some of the hand santizer that is small and you can keep it on you in ur pocket... then just excuse yourself or just squirt it on ... then you won't be as freaked out as much by the germ situation
i have seen people use it before so i think people in general would find it odder that you won't shake their hand than use the sanitizer
2007-10-18 02:49:44 · answer #4 · answered by Caitlin P 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
"Oh, I'm sorry! I have a cold and don't want to spread it to you. Nice to meet you!"
I've used that one plenty of times, works fine, and usually the other person is more than happy not to shake your hand after hearing that, and may even thank you for being so considerate.
2007-10-17 20:24:18 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Years ago, ladies always wore gloves. It made sense because this practice kept germs away as well as it delayed wrinkles, prevented sunburns & reduced age spots. Why don't you bring back that charming fashion?
2007-10-17 20:48:19 · answer #6 · answered by mstrywmn 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest just keeping your hands in your pockets or behind your back. Otherwise, you can say you just ate something and your hands are sticky.
2007-10-17 20:55:05 · answer #7 · answered by Stephen G 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why not just tell them that you just cleaned up dog poop and didn't get a chance to wash your hands yet.. That would do it for me! Keep YOUR hands to yourself PLEEZ! LOL
2007-10-17 20:30:14 · answer #8 · answered by Joanie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just say It is certainly a pleasure to meet you and I don't mean to seem rude, but I don't believe in handshaking.
2007-10-17 20:24:00 · answer #9 · answered by Diane B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sneeze in your hand, and comment on the "cold" you are catching...
2007-10-17 21:51:52 · answer #10 · answered by kiki72404 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋