The Greeting Ritual

I've noticed that the greeting ritual in the business-world is very predictable and amusing. And its also a striking contrast to the greeting rituals of the personal world.

Immediately after introductions follows the business card exchange. Maybe this is elementary, but for me its a newly observed behavior and I'm fascinated.

In the personal-world you are introduced and then you spend a good time talking before you decide whether you want to ever see this person again. If so, then you engage pleasantly with them... and then if you really feel interested in continuing a connection with that person, you may be inspired to exchange info... but not before.

It would be very strange to swap rituals... "Hi, nice to meet you, here's a handy and durable piece of paper with my name, identity and every possible way to contact me." That would just be creepy.

But I guess that just goes to show the contrasting goals of each world. In the business-world, the goal is to make the most connections as possible. In the personal-world, the point is to enjoy those connections you choose to make and keep.