Title: Question for Muslim/Lebanese Australians: Is Shaking Hands with a Muslim Woman Appropriate?

Hi everyone,

I recently started a new job and there’s a middle-aged Muslim woman in my workplace. I’m unsure whether it’s appropriate to offer a handshake when I meet her for the first time. I want to be respectful and not inadvertently offend her by either shaking her hand or opting not to shake hands.

For context, I’m a white Australian male and really just want to create a positive start to our relationship.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

One thought on “Muslim/Lebanese Australians: is it okay to shake a muslim womans hand?”

  1. It’s great that you want to be respectful and considerate of cultural norms. In general, many Muslim women may prefer not to shake hands with men due to their beliefs about modesty and personal interactions. However, cultural practices can vary widely among individuals, so it’s always best to approach the situation with sensitivity.

    When you meet her, you could offer a friendly smile and an introduction without extending your hand. If she is comfortable shaking hands, she will likely initiate it. If she doesn’t, that would be an indication to respect her boundaries. You can also say something like, “It’s nice to meet you,” which conveys your friendliness without assuming physical contact.

    Ultimately, showing your willingness to be respectful will help create a positive connection, and if you’re unsure, just ask her directly in a polite way about her preference. Most people appreciate when others take the time to consider their cultural practices. Good luck with your new job!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Explore More

Your local Maccas coffee

Your Local Maccas Coffee Experience Has anyone else noticed that their local Maccas serves coffee in a takeaway cup, even when dining in? We love to take our kids to

Should I live near the beach as someone who’s new in Sydney?

Considering Living Near the Beach as a Newcomer in Sydney The title pretty much sums it up! I’ll be moving out of my hotel into a shared house at the

Scammed – Please no judgement

Subject: I Got Scammed – Seeking Advice Hi everyone, I’m hoping for some understanding as I share my experience. Recently, I used RentMen, an escort website, to connect with someone