Question
Yui thinks shaking hands is old fashioned. Her mother says she should shake hands at an interview. Who is right? Defend your answer.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The appropriateness of shaking hands can depend on cultural norms, personal preferences, and the context of the situation. Here’s a breakdown of both perspectives:
**Yui’s Perspective (Shaking hands is old-fashioned):**
1. **Changing Social Norms:** Some younger generations view shaking hands as outdated, preferring alternative greetings such as fist bumps or simply a verbal greeting. This perspective emphasizes a shift toward more casual and personal interactions.
2. **Health Concerns:** In light of health issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, some people are more conscious of hygiene and may prefer to avoid physical contact altogether.
3. **Personal Comfort:** Yui may feel uncomfortable with physical contact or believe that there are other ways to establish rapport that don't involve handshakes.
**Yui's Mother's Perspective (Shake hands at an interview):**
1. **Professional Etiquette:** Shaking hands is often seen as a professional courtesy. It can convey confidence, friendliness, and respect. Many people in the professional world still expect this form of greeting.
2. **First Impressions:** An interview is a formal situation where first impressions matter. A handshake can help set a positive tone and demonstrate Yui's professionalism.
3. **Cultural Expectations:** In many cultures and industries, a handshake is a traditional greeting and may be an expectation during interviews. Following these norms can show that Yui is socially aware and adaptable.
**Conclusion:**
Both Yui and her mother present valid points. While Yui's perspective reflects a modern understanding of social interactions, her mother’s view aligns with conventional professional etiquette. Ultimately, Yui should consider the context of the specific interview she is attending. If the industry is traditionally formal and handshakes are the norm, it may be beneficial for her to follow that practice, while still being open to alternative greetings if she feels comfortable doing so. A balanced approach that considers her comfort and the expectations of the situation might be the best route.
**Yui’s Perspective (Shaking hands is old-fashioned):**
1. **Changing Social Norms:** Some younger generations view shaking hands as outdated, preferring alternative greetings such as fist bumps or simply a verbal greeting. This perspective emphasizes a shift toward more casual and personal interactions.
2. **Health Concerns:** In light of health issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, some people are more conscious of hygiene and may prefer to avoid physical contact altogether.
3. **Personal Comfort:** Yui may feel uncomfortable with physical contact or believe that there are other ways to establish rapport that don't involve handshakes.
**Yui's Mother's Perspective (Shake hands at an interview):**
1. **Professional Etiquette:** Shaking hands is often seen as a professional courtesy. It can convey confidence, friendliness, and respect. Many people in the professional world still expect this form of greeting.
2. **First Impressions:** An interview is a formal situation where first impressions matter. A handshake can help set a positive tone and demonstrate Yui's professionalism.
3. **Cultural Expectations:** In many cultures and industries, a handshake is a traditional greeting and may be an expectation during interviews. Following these norms can show that Yui is socially aware and adaptable.
**Conclusion:**
Both Yui and her mother present valid points. While Yui's perspective reflects a modern understanding of social interactions, her mother’s view aligns with conventional professional etiquette. Ultimately, Yui should consider the context of the specific interview she is attending. If the industry is traditionally formal and handshakes are the norm, it may be beneficial for her to follow that practice, while still being open to alternative greetings if she feels comfortable doing so. A balanced approach that considers her comfort and the expectations of the situation might be the best route.