How to use Russian greeting gestures appropriately with women
Express Yourself: The Role of Body Language in Russian Communication: How to use Russian greeting gestures appropriately with women
In Russia, greeting women appropriately involves mostly verbal greetings and subtle gestures rather than firm handshakes. Common and polite gestures include smiling, nodding, and sometimes waving if at a distance. Handshakes with women are less frequent and usually reserved for formal business settings, and even then, the woman typically extends her hand first. Among close female friends or relatives, greeting with a single cheek kiss or a trio of cheek kisses is common but less typical in formal or new acquaintances.
Typical Greeting Gestures with Women
- Smiling and nodding is the most common and polite gesture when greeting women. It conveys respect without physical contact.
- Waving the hand is appropriate when greeting from a distance.
- Handshakes are mostly for formal occasions and business meetings, and only if she initiates it. The handshake from women is usually softer than the firm handshake typical among men.
- Kissing on the cheek (one or three kisses alternating cheeks) is common among close friends and female relatives, but not for formal or first-time meetings.
- Hugging is used among close friends and family, but less so in initial greetings.
Key Etiquette Points
- Avoid shaking hands over a threshold or doorway; wait until inside to greet.
- Use verbal greetings such as “Привет” (Privet) for informal and “Здравствуйте” (Zdravstvuyte) for formal situations.
- Maintain eye contact while greeting to show respect.
- Do not initiate physical contact like handshakes or hugs with women unless they signal readiness.
- When giving flowers or gifts on a date or special occasion, avoid even numbers or chrysanthemums as they have negative connotations.
Following these practices helps show respect and understanding of Russian culture when greeting women, whether in social or business environments. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5