Do you ever have those moments when you wonder, ‘Should I shake hands with the other person or not?’ Greetings are more than a formality; they say something about a person’s culture. Although the ways of greeting vary greatly, they often have the same purpose: to show connection, respect and trust. So let’s take a trip around the world to see how people greet each other.
Western countries
In many Western countries, the handshake is the standard greeting ritual, especially in business contexts. It is a short, firm touch that conveys trust, equality and professionalism. Among friends or family, you often see hugs, gestures that show warmth and affection. Younger generations make it informal: a high-five or a pat on the shoulder can be enough to express connection.
Asia
In Asia, respect and hierarchy are often important. In Japan and Korea, people bow when they meet; the deeper the bow, the more respect is shown. In Thailand, you see the “wai”, where the hands are folded together and the head is bowed slightly. It is an elegant gesture of respect and gratitude. In India and Nepal, people use the Namasté greeting: hands folded against the chest or face, a symbolic recognition of the divine in the other person.
In other countries such as China, Vietnam and Indonesia, a slight bow or nod is sometimes sufficient, especially in formal meetings. Physical contact between strangers is often less common there, and eye contact can be subtle.
Africa
Africa is hugely diverse, and this is reflected in greetings. Handshakes can be rhythmic, involve multiple grips or even end with a gentle click of the fingers, as in Ghana. Often, the hand is placed on the chest when greeting someone, a sign of sincere intention and respect. Other greetings include nods, slight bows or informal hugs, depending on the region and the relationship between people. What becomes clear is that there is always a focus on connection.
Middle East
Respect plays a central role in the Middle East. Among men, a light handshake is customary, sometimes accompanied by a hand on the arm or shoulder. But often a hand on the heart says just as much: the gesture radiates respect, sincerity and warmth. Words are important: a greeting such as ‘As-salāmu ʿalaykum’ (‘Peace be upon you’) can even carry more weight than physical touch. Among family and close friends, hugs or cheek kisses are common.
A universal message
Every greeting is a ritual of connection. Recognising and understanding these subtle signals is a valuable skill — both personally and professionally.
And if you do make a blunder during a greeting, remember that even world leaders — accompanied by advisors — don’t always know whether to give the other person a handshake, a hug or a kiss.
