✎ Editor's note: This piece was originally published on LinkedIn in 2016. In our increasingly hybrid and global workplace, the questions about professional greetings remain just as pertinent—perhaps even more so as we navigate the nuances of in-person connection across cultures.

I am still working out what the correct protocol is when meeting new people, or greeting those I have worked with for many years. I think I am in need of a little help!

I suppose you could call me the undefined, clumsy and pretty introverted one when it comes to a new group of people. I very often find myself going for the handshake, which turns into uncomfortable 'bro-hug' and on many occasions has also had the odd cheek kiss thrown in. I am awkward. Fact.

Whilst I am a clumsy mess, I tend to laugh it off and warm up to a big group of people. In all honesty though I sometimes begin waving some five feet away from a guest at reception just to avoid the awkwardness all together because I just can't handle the social ambiguity of whether it is going to be a handshake or me doing a little final jumping step into their company as I usher them into a meeting room. Weird, aren't I?

I think I may well just be a little scarred from some pretty awkward situations I have found myself in during the early years of my career.

I recall one time in particular, where a European colleague of mine approached me to begin a meeting with what I thought would be a one cheek kiss. I had this. I could handle one cheek. But, I was of course blissfully unaware that a second one was coming. Oh dear. This was an epic misjudgment. So between her going for my second cheek and myself pulling away to engage in further conversation we ended up having a very uncomfortable lip brushing moment which still makes me cringe when I cast my mind back to it today. It was over 10 years ago!

I like to think I have a fine handshake, firm – but not too firm and I always wear a smile, but how firm should a handshake be and how long does the shake last?

Oh no. Here comes another social anxiety when shaking someones hand:

OK, let go of their hand now Simon. Wait – they are still shaking your hand. Don't let go. Maybe you are still shaking, and they aren't? Maybe you need to let go? OH. MY. GOD. WHY ARE YOU SO AWKWARD SIMON.

I have learnt however from my social crimes – I now have to warn those I meet regularly that I generally just like to say hello and continue walking, which is working well for me. Phew.

I hope some of you laugh at just a snippet of some stories, but honestly – I am still working out the perfect balance of the meet and greet. What do you do when greeting people? Do you have any rules that you stick to, or do you just go with the flow? I'd love to hear about some stories and any tips.