11 rules for hugging at the office
There may come a time when you want to hug a co-worker. That’s OK, just make sure you’re familiar with the rules of office embrace engagement.
Hello. My name is Tim Sackett, and I’m a hugger.
Being a hugger can make for some awkward moments. What if the other person isn’t expecting a hug, or doesn’t want to hug, and you’re coming in arms-wide-open?!
Fast Company had an article titled “To Hug Or Not To Hug At Work?,” that delved into this subject. Here’s a piece from the article:
“Awkwardness is … ‘the uncomfortable feeling you get when you realize that your concept of your relationship with someone else doesn’t match their concept. The intensity of awkwardness roughly corresponds to the magnitude of difference in relationship concepts.’ ”
I consider myself to have a number of roles: Husband, dad, coach, boss, friend, co-worker, etc. In each of those roles I’ve hugged and will continue to hug. Sometimes, though rarely, I’ll find someone who isn’t a hugger.
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