As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, people around the world have changed their greeting style. To reduce the risk of contracting the virus, many switched from the Western custom of shaking hands to a wide range of alternatives. Assume you have been asked by the editor of your school blog to post an article reviewing the history of the handshake and how the greeting has changed as the COVID-19 pandemic appeared and spread. What alternatives have emerged not only in your country but around the world?

Although most interviews during the pandemic were conducted by video call and a certain percentage of employers will continue the practice, eventually the handshake may come back once the pandemic wanes completely and face-to-face interviewing resumes.

Your Task. 

Search the Web for current information about greetings that are considered polite, safe, and welcoming. What is the history of the custom of shaking hands? What alternatives have emerged to replace handshaking? Has the stigma of touching declined since the initial reaction to the pandemic outbreak? What advice would you give candidates who are being interviewed for jobs? Submit your findings in an e-mail or a format your instructor chooses. You may be asked to share your findings in a presentation illustrated with images.