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To hug or not to hug? The 'right' way to greet colleagues and clients

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Who'd have thought that greeting people would become such a 21st century problem? Of course, the protocols for saying 'hello' and 'goodbye' have varied from culture to culture, country to country, for millennia. Indeed, in France (where they're very keen on the kiss as an introduction), the number of kisses deemed appropriate changes between regions.

"In the age of globalisation, all bets are off."

Ever socially awkward, we Brits have restricted ourselves to the formal handshake for centuries (and perhaps male lips pressed to a lady's gloved hand, in the Edwardian era). But now, in the age of globalisation, all bets are off. Imagine you run British creative agency (perhaps you do), and a group of prospective Japanese clients are visiting. How do you greet them without causing a dreadful international incident, and losing all that lovely business before you've even begun pitching? To hug or not to hug? Shake or not to shake? Kiss or not to kiss? Many professionals ponder this question when meeting or bidding farewell in a commercial situation. Worse still, how do you offer your good wishes to your colleagues, but avoid some kind of sexual harassment complaint? It's a minefield to be sure.

"Hugging among co-workers is becoming more popular."

New research from staffing firm The Creative Group suggests that hugging among co-workers is becoming more popular. Over half (54%) of advertising and marketing executives surveyed, said the practice is at least somewhat common, up from 30% five years ago. It's a different story when it comes to meeting clients, however: 77% of respondents said business hugs are rarely, if ever, appropriate in this context, up one point from 2011. Advertising and marketing executives were asked, "In general, how common is it for you to greet the following individuals with a hug instead of a handshake?" Their responses:

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"Not everyone will be receptive to business hugs."

The survey was developed by The Creative Group and conducted by an independent research firm. It includes responses from more than 400 advertising and marketing executives. "While more hugging may be an indication that professionals are embracing open working environments, bear in mind that not everyone will be receptive to business hugs," said Deborah Bottineau, Senior Regional Manager of The Creative Group. "It is important to consider in what context hugging is appropriate, do your best to read the environment, and when in doubt, offer a handshake instead." The survey goes on to offer three tips for greeting business contacts with grace:

1. Master the handshake. A firm handshake is a safe bet as it's a standard greeting in many parts of the world -- and one that isn't apt to offend.

2. Go in the right order. If you're meeting with a group of people, exchange pleasantries with new contacts before those you already know. Also, make a point to introduce junior-ranking employees to senior-level staff.

3. Avert awkwardness. Not a fan of business hugs? Protect your personal space by extending your hand early when approaching colleagues to signal your preference.

And those Japanese clients? Very formal handshakes with a slight bow of the head; save the snogging for the French.

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