I have a problem greeting new people I meet.

Sometimes a few of my closest friends introduces me to their other friends that I haven’t met yet and sometimes it often starts off quite awkward. Just 2 days ago, my friend and I meet up at a park, and yes she brought a long a few of her friends that I never met before. And I started saying “hello, nice to meet you” but when it comes to hand shaking or any forms of hand gestures use for greetings, it often ends up terrible or weird. I mean, when I hand shake, I usually do it quicker because I have this feeling that I dont have to hold on much longer, and sometimes they become shocked because they thought I had a weird touching disorder or something, sometimes I can even become hesitant and often leaves the person hanging without receiving any hand shakes or high fives or whatever. What do I do to end this awkwardness?

link

CreativeAlien

3 Answers

What I would do in this case is, perhaps, practice greetings. I am assuming that the only issue here is that you have a bit of trouble when it specifically comes to introducing yourself to new people, so I apologize in advance if this doesn't help. I have to admit, I personally didn't talk to very many people around me, even though I wasn't anti-social. Here, you have a good opportunity to meet some nice new people. I suggest that if you feel that things are going to be a bit awkward between people you're about to talk to, let your friend and those new people know that you are a bit shy or awkward when it comes to meeting new people. I'm gonna say this under the assumption that your close friends are nice people, so if you can talk comfortably to them, being able to properly speak with new people is a goal that is very reachable, as long as you reach out to them and let them know. Communication is key, but I do understand that it can be a bit of a steep hill to climb when it actually comes down to it. TL;DR, just let them know that you are a bit awkward when you meet new people. If you at least let them know, they'll genuinely help you out. Who knows, maybe the new people you meet might also become good friends with you! Good luck, sir/madam.

link

Koraxious

The best advice I can give to you is that when you give a handshake, you firmly shake their hand for a moment, then let go. Hope that helps somehow!

link

TheFastLane

I think the best advice I have is to make eye contact and smile. I'm a bit awkward too when it comes to greetings, but I find that even if I'm not sure how I should greet someone, a warm smile and a firm handshake is always a safe bet. As for length, I reckon two or three firm shakes is about right, but the most important thing is committing to it. I know that sounds a bit silly, but if you just go for a handshake without second guessing whether you should or not, the other person will go along with it and it wont be weird. Be in charge, lead the greeting and that way you don't have to worry about following someone else's social cues.

link

flipflap