Pleased to meet you

MEETING people in social and business functions is inevitable. One cannot also escape from introducing them to one another. To the uninitiated, presenting people to each other may mean randomly naming those present --- but not to those who know etiquette!

Rules slightly vary between social and business introductions, albeit here are the surprisingly simple guidelines when introducing people:

The GAS rule.
During parties and family affairs like birthdays, weddings, funerals and other social functions, the order of priority when introducing people is gender-age-social status.

GENDER.
Etiquette dictates that between a man and a woman, the woman is considered more important so her name is mentioned first: "Cristina, I'd like you to meet John". Alternately, you may also present the woman to the man: "John, may I introduce you to Cristina." Note that in both examples, the woman's presence is highlighted.

It will also help to provide additional information about the persons you are introducing so that they can start a conversation. Say, for example, "John, Cristina is an agency manager of X company" and "John is a doctor specializing in gastroenterology".

When introducing people, avoid the ping-pong effect (John meet Cristina, Cristina meet John), which is tasteless and mechanical. Your friends deserve better treatment!

AGE.
In case of same gender, the older woman/man is considered more important "Grandma, this is my roommate, Gilda" or "Ingrid, please meet my Aunt Catherine".

SOCIAL STATUS.
When positions are considered, introduce the one with the higher social standing or status first. "Josh, may I present my sensei, Prof. Sato."

In business however, where men and women are equal and where age doesn't matter, the only rule is to introduce the one with higher status first. Thus, "Employee A, please meet Mr. Manager." It is necessary to include the person's last name and position in business introductions.

Handshake/ Bowing
In social settings, the person presented must initiate the handshake, thus the adage: the lady extends her hand first to the gentleman. In business, however, it does not matter who offers the handshake. TIP: Create an impact by offering your hand first!

In whatever situation, the handshake must be warm, sincere, firm and short. It will be very impolite to withdraw your hand after having barely touched the other. Holding the other person's hand too long is also improper.

Handshaking is usually done while standing. Maintain eye contact, smile and say a brief "hello" or "How are you?" while shaking hands.

If you are one with sweaty palms, please discreetly wipe your hand first before extending it! Ojigi or the Japanese bow is sufficient when being introduced to a Japanese. In bowing, place your hands at the side and make a slight bow.

Leave Taking
The first one introduced in social gatherings takes leave by excusing him/herself courteously. Say for example, "It was nice meeting you, Michelle. I hope to see you again sometime." In business, part from your new acquaintance with a handshake or an ojigi.

Go on, meet people, introduce them to one another, and widen your network -- with grace! *

Tippi works in a bank as Human Resources Manager but also conducts personalized training on visual poise/posture, basic skin care, make-up, etiquette, oral communication and wardrobe. You may email the author at tippi@philippinestoday.net.

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