Page 154 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Appendix A

Handshakes
Handshakes should be firm. Weak handshakes give a poor impres-
sion. Avoid limp noodle or dead fish handshakes. However, firm
handshakes should not be bone crushing (so firm that you hurt
the other person’s hand). Handshakes should be about one or two
pumps, not more. In business, handshakes are equally correct for men
and women. Sometimes, to show warmth or enthusiasm, one places
a second hand on top of the other person’s hand. Men often do not
extend their hands to women. This is one of those times for women
to take the lead.

Personal Space

Personal space is important for making people feel comfortable.
Americans accept a much smaller area of personal space than Asians
but may need more than many Europeans. If you stand too close,
people will think you are pushy or being too personal. If you stand
too far away, people will think you are distant or untrusting. When
standing face-to-face with someone, stand one to two feet away
(arm’s length). Keep cultural comforts in mind when shaking hands;
don’t be offended if someone from a culture different from yours
either steps into the handshake or steps back to leave more space.
Avoid touching the other person except for the handshake. Touching
makes some people uncomfortable. Lean toward the other person
to show interest. When standing side by side or sitting, the personal
space will often be less than arm’s length. Often, Americans give
casual kisses. This occurs in social situations. In business situations,
this can be inappropriate. It can cause discomfort for those not used
to “casual intimacy.”

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