For the hug avoidant, a few techniques. 1. Make the first move. “Most people, the mistake they make is to wait for someone else to do the thing and then respond,” says West.

Hugs are a particular American greeting. They’re not a bear hug nor the kind of ritual hug and kiss that French people give one another. It is not the rubbing of noses as happens in some ...

Business greetings have always been a sensitive topic, but in the post-pandemic era, the dilemma over the hug vs. the handshake has taken on new importance, writes columnist Nancy Marshall.

The routine behind the greeting helps. Chris Young, principal at North Country Union High School in Newport, Vt., plays a song every day before he reads the morning announcements. “The best part ...