An interesting discussion on a forum caught my eye. In the post a woman was merely taking an opinion poll on the “appropriateness” of hugging a business associate of the opposite gender. The discussion took a serious turn, when someone responded, who was a bit opinionated.
Now, the intention of the responder may have been, in all
honesty, not intended to make the person feel stupid. But, this is what he
managed to do. He was outlining the socio-cultural norms of two countries (one
European and the US). What is
interesting is the west as we know in India as the progressive nation is also
tormented by such social norms!
I remember, getting a hug, and also hugging someone from the
opposite gender. I could have met the individual after a long time, was happy
to see him. Or, the hug could have been a spontaneous outcome, after a
successful project. Most of us have learned to identify the difference between
a casual hug given in the spirit of fellowship or goodwill, and a hug which is
motivated by explicit intentions.
However, if you feel uncomfortable, refrain from doing so in
the future. Still unsure? check out this post on LinkedIn.
No comments:
Post a Comment