Press Releases
Read about our latest research, including results from our ongoing surveys of senior managers and workers, and company announcements.
MENLO PARK, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- To hug or not to hug? Many professionals ponder this question when greeting or bidding farewell to colleagues. And new research from staffing firm The Creative Group suggests that hugging among coworkers is more popular. More than half (54 percent) of advertising and marketing executives surveyed said this practice is at least somewhat common in the United States, up from 30 percent five years ago.
It's a different story when it comes to meeting clients, however: More than three-quarters (77 percent) of respondents said business hugs are rarely, if ever, appropriate in this context, up one point from 2011.
View an infographic of the survey findings.
"Business hugs may be more prevalent today, but they might not be welcomed by everyone," said Diane Domeyer, executive director of The Creative Group. "When greeting colleagues, consider the environment and tune into body language. Even if you're a natural hugger, it's best to offer a handshake when you sense a hug may make someone uncomfortable."
Advertising and marketing executives were asked, "In general, how common is it for you to greet the following individuals with a hug instead of a handshake in the United States?" Their responses:
|
Coworker |
Client/Business Contact |
|||
|
2016 |
2011 |
2016 |
2011 |
|
|
Very common if you know the individual well or it has been a while since you have seen him or her |
10% |
7% |
5% |
3% |
|
Somewhat common if you know the individual well or it has been a while since you have seen him or her |
44% |
23% |
17% |
21% |
|
Not common at all; hugging is rarely appropriate in a business setting |
22% |
57% |
33% |
61% |
|
Never; hugging is not appropriate in a business setting |
23% |
13% |
44% |
15% |
|
Don't know |
1% |
0% |
2% |
0% |
|
100% |
100% |
101%* |
100% |
|
|
*Responses do not total 100 percent due to rounding. |
The Creative Group offers three tips for greeting business contacts with grace:
- Master the handshake. A firm handshake is a safe bet as it's a standard greeting in many parts of the world -- and one that isn't apt to offend.
- Go in the right order. If you're meeting with a group of people, exchange pleasantries with new contacts before those you already know. Also, make a point to introduce junior-ranking employees to senior-level staff.
- Avert awkwardness. Not a fan of business hugs? Protect your personal space by extending your hand early when approaching colleagues to signal your preference.
About the Research
The survey was developed by The Creative Group and conducted by an independent research firm. It includes responses from more than 400 U.S. advertising and marketing executives.
About The Creative Group
The Creative Group (TCG) specializes in placing a range of highly skilled interactive, design, marketing, advertising and public relations professionals with a variety of firms on a project, contract-to-hire and full-time basis. More information, including online job-hunting services, candidate portfolios and TCG's blog, can be found at creativegroup.com.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160111/320862-INFO
SOURCE The Creative Group