Social Distancing Strategies for Polite Interactions
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the way people gather, work, and receive education. As the world begins to slowly return to “normal,” it is important to ensure safety without sacrificing politeness. This article will provide practical and courteous tips on how to avoid physical contact during post-COVID social gatherings, so keep reading to learn how you can stay safe without being rude.
By adhering to a few simple behaviors, you can protect yourself and others without coming off as impolite or unwelcoming. You can also reduce the risk of spreading the virus and prevent passing on any illnesses you may have contracted. Whether it be family gatherings, backyard barbecues, or networking events, there are ways to maintain social protocols while avoiding physical contact. The following tips will assist you in continuing to take measures against COVID-19 with courtesy.
Greeting Others
When it comes to greeting others in a post-pandemic world, the golden rule is to keep a safe distance. Many people are uncomfortable with any physical contact, even touching elbows. To greet someone, a smile and wave are appropriate. Words such as, “I’m glad to see you,” are also polite and convey the same sentiment. Alternatively, Verbal greetings such as, “It’s great to see you” are also an excellent option.
Social Gatherings
At social gatherings, a firm handshake or hug might have been the traditional greeting in the past, but it’s no longer the safest option. If you are the host of the event, arrange the seating so that guests are kept far enough away from each other to feel comfortable. As the guest, it’s best to acknowledge the host and other guests by smiling and waving them hello.
Outdoor Activities
For activities such as hiking or picnics, it’s important to remain six feet away and to wear a mask if possible. Rather than shaking hands or hugging, wave and say a friendly greeting. If the activity requires closer proximity, elbow bumps are an excellent alternative to handshakes.
Business Meetings
Avoiding physical contact in business meetings can be a bit trickier than during social gatherings because proper business etiquette typically involves a handshake. To greet colleagues or clients in a socially distant way, we recommend greeters reach out their left hand to chest level, then using the right hand, offer a “wave” followed by a verbal salutation.
Restaurants
When dining out, remember that following the same social distancing rules applies in restaurants. Your aim should be to reduce the risk of any contact between the server and yourself. Try to get the waiter’s attention by motioning instead of waving them over. If you need to prompt the waiter to pour you more drinks or bring your food, avoid verbal instructions and try gesture-based commands. It is also important to keep a safe distance when getting up or sitting down at the table.
Travel
Traveling during the pandemic can be difficult, and it’s important to maintain social distance and wear a mask at all times. Airports often have sanitizing stations throughout, so make sure to sanitize your hands wherever possible. When entering or exiting planes, avoid shaking hands with anyone. Instead, wave and say “Hello” or “Goodbye.” Similarly, avoid physical contact in large waiting areas, and adhere to the 6-foot distance rule when entering and departing from airports.
Greeting others in a post-pandemic world presents a unique set of challenges. To properly greet others, it is important to avoid any physical contact and instead offer a friendly verbal greeting or wave. When at social gatherings, wave instead of shaking hands and, at restaurants, get the waiters attention without verbal instructions. Travelers should remember that airports are often filled with sanitizing stations and to wave and say “Hello” or “Goodbye” instead of shaking hands with anyone. By following these tips, we can all successfully navigate the post-pandemic world without compromising our health and safety.
