It is very important to handle introductions correctly.
First impressions do count you know, and they especially count in the etiquette-conscious
Spanish-speaking countries. Even if your Spanish is lousy, you will make a good
impression if you handle introduction situations correctly. So here goes!
- Shake hands at the beginning and
at the end of the conversation. Don't squeeze much; North Americans are famous for
causing pain when they shake hands.
- Stand about 18 inches to 24 inches from the person
you are meeting. This is too close in Anglo countries, so you will probably feel
uncomfortable at first. But if you step back to an Anglo distance, you will appear
cold and snobbish.
- When you are in a group, do the introduction
ritual with every person there.
- Don't skip anyone. When you leave, say
goodbye to everyone personally. A general wave to the whole group won't do.
"How to Make a Good Impression"