No European Kissing At Work, Germans Decide

A German etiquette group, “The Knigge Society” targets kissing on the cheek as an inappropriate, uncomfortable, greeting in the workplace.

Countries in Europe are usually associated with a touchy-feely, kiss-on-the-cheek type of welcome. Many countries like France, Italy, and countries in South America use a peck, or two, like a handshake. But, apparently, Germany was never so keen on the greeting. Chairman of the Knigge Society, Hans-Michael Klein, has received many emails complaining about the behavior, being told that this is not, in fact, typical German behavior.

While the society cannot forbid kissing in the work place, they have promoted the idea of those with discomfort about being kissed as a greeting place a little note on their desk, asking not be be greeted this way. Sounds to me like a quick way of becoming a social outcast.

While there is no way to outlaw kissing on the cheek in a workplace in Germany, hopefully some serial cheek-kissers will eventually get the point. Or maybe the warning sign is not such a bad idea after all.

Contact the author here: crazycolleen@morningquickie.com