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Is Shaking Hands Too 20th Century in Today's Germophobic World?

handshake

Last year (or the year before? Egads), I wrote a blog called "Always extend your hand first" which encouraged the more introverted among us to always initiate the handshake instead of waiting for the other person to do it. Why? Because if the other person doesn't do it, and no handshake ensues, the relationship starts off awkwardly.

I got an email yesterday from someone who didn't agree with me (and that's always cool). She said that she's finding more and more people avoiding hand-contact upon introduction due to concerns about germs & flu's & such. So, she's decided never to initiate a handshake and let the other person decide the matter.

Hmmmmm. I'm a bit skeptical. While I'm no hand-shaking expert, I can't say that I've noticed any trend toward avoiding introductory contact. And I wonder if this reaction has more to do with the non-initiator's attitude toward touch than a concern over the other person's preference.

Don't get me wrong - I'm not disagreeing with or belittling my reader's opinion! Maybe she's onto something I've been too socially isolated lately to notice.

However, I believe I shall continue to initiate handshakes - I'd much rather take the risk of being rebuffed by my introductee, than of alienating a potential new friend or client.

Thoughts? Please share!!

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Posted by Jennifer Allan, Author of Sell with Soul on 08/14/2009 07:20 AM

Comments (19)

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Originally posted at: Selling Soulfully with Jennifer Allan: Is Shaking Hands Too 20th Century in Today's Germophobic World?

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19 Comments on Is Shaking Hands Too 20th Century in Today's Germophobic World?

AUG

I think that upbringing and geography have something to do with this issue. Being from the south, hand-shakes are ingrained in our culture.

There's always SOMETHING to worry about! I, too have always initiated handshakes and probably will continue to do so, although I see alot of people reluctant to make contact. I'm sure the makers of waterless hand sanitizers are happy. Personally, I've always thought that he more germs you ingest (within reason), the better your resistance.

You post is dead on. I experienced for the first time at a show in Florida 2 years ago sonme one who would not shake hands over a concern about germs. It was an odd feeling. But you know life is what it is and shaking hands is not going to alter it .

Vickie - funny - I just moved to the south and find that hand-shaking is too formal - everyone wants a hug!

Leslie - I agree 100%. I used to work at a doctor's office and I remember one guy getting all freaked out because when we cleaned his arm with alcohol, a lot of "dirt" showed up on the cotton ball. He was sure that we didn't get it all off and that he'd get an infection if we stuck the needle in his arm. But, uh, if he lives with that "dirt" on a daily basis, it's probably okay.

Charlie - If I have a cold, I'll keep my hand to myself, I think I'd rather take the risk of getting a germ than alienating someone.

I think men should shake hands. I know this sounds sexist, but men relate different. A hand shake is manly and yet provides touch. It is also a bond and a confirmation of ones agreement. With women a handshake is more social and is often done with more of a gentle taking of the hand.

I am not a touchy feely person in general and I have trouble with the hugging that is more prevelant in our society (but not in business). When I was in Spain the constant kiss on the cheek from women was something I had to get used to.

In any case, unless the person is dripping with a cold or burning up with fever, I do not worry about getting sick.

What a bunch of germophobes! Buy some hand sanitizer if it is that big of a deal. I am with you on this one, Jennifer- you shakes hands with people and not the little fishy handshake, either.

Here, handshakes and even hugs... even business hugs... are common. :o) If everyone becomes germophobic, we could all start giving a little bow (like they do in Japan) instead of a handshake.

I saw this and thought....oh my gosh Jennifer is reaching for material (you probably are). But then was thinking of two people I know who refuse to shake hands. So a very fun and inciteful post! My wife's a germophobe, but not to the extent of others. My family has 5 Medical Doctors. They say that you can be sooooooooooo germ free that you don't build up an immunity either. Me????? I'll eat off the floor if the food's good! Just not the bathroom floor.

I haven't noticed this trend at all...and agree it is a little extreme. Exposure to germs and dirt is a good thing for our immune system - plus, there is always antibacterial gel if someone is uneasy.

It must be a Howie Mandel thing. I have yet to encounter anyone who would not shake my hand. In fact most prefer I give them a big old fashoined embrace. Yes...I'm a hugger!!! There I said it.

Having dealt with MRSA for 7 months after a hurricane a few years ago, I can appreciate both sides of the coin/hand shake/hug issue(s) Jennifer. Born in Georgia and living all my life in Florida with a dad from Alabama, hugging was always the custom in most cases. back then. If there was something going around, generally a tip of the head and a broad smile made up for not touching. Times were gentler and most folks were not always in such a rush! After the MRSA, I was phobic about it for quite awile. Now I just decide on a case by case and using my instincts which God gave me to keep me out of harms way.

Maybe after this swine flu thing is over, we should start a resurgance of Hug buttons?

AUG

Jennifer, Shaking hands for me is so natural and I am believer in a firm handshake. Yep, I do wash my hands quite often...but that comes from my RN training. Have not noticed anyone avoiding the handshake.

AUG

Handshaking is a gesture of goodwill and I have noted that even in the south some reluctance to handshakes while others are still willing to greet you with a hug.

I am with you ! I am all for the initiation of the handshake and if someone else does it first, all the better as well. Is a great way to establish rapport.

AUG

Jennifer, I know it is hard for me to trust some one that doesnt shake my hand and look me in the eye. I always offer my hand...

AUG

I'm with you Jennifer. I extend my hand first (unless they are quicker on the draw). As far as germ, i just wash my hands often and give others the benefit of the doubt that they do too.

A lot of peoples feelings were hurt when AIDS first became an issue because there was a mistaken belief that you could catch it from hugging some one with it. I am not going to hurt someones feelings by refusing a handshake.

Steve Onikki was speaking at a meeting today. He provided a really great demonstration of the Hand Shake in his opening conversation. I first saw and heard him about 20-25 years ago. He is still so "on The Mark". Be sure to attend if you ever have the opportunity. He is now living in Sarasota. I'll be attending another program with him in September.

AUG

Interesting blog and comments. I too would rather shake hands- not quite a hugger type yet. I hadn't really thought of the idea of avoiding germs, but as a former nurse, I should have. Maybe in flu season we should carry around one of those little bottles of hand sanitizer.

AUG

A good handshake it a fantastic way to set the stage for whatever comes next - whether its the handshake at first meeting, or the handshake to seal a deal - when you look the person directly in the eye and shake their hand with some feeling or emotion - gusto(?) it really means something and the client will appreciate that.

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