How to Greet Someone If You Are Not Sure You Know Them
Some of us just don’t remember faces well, which can lead to an awkward moment when we think we’re meeting someone for the first time and they say they’ve met before. Or worse, we think we have met someone before and greet them this way, only to find out that they have no idea who we are. Here’s a one-sentence trick to avoid those awkward moments.
On NPR’s Hidden Brain podcast, they share an easy way to find out if the person you are greeting is a stranger or someone you should know. Try to say it in a light or neutral tone so it looks natural. Shaking his hand or quickly waving your hand, say: “Hey, I know you from somewhere …?”
If they say no, play with the words, “Oh, you just looked a little familiar. Nice to meet you! “
If they say yes and say how you know each other, answer: Yes, that’s right. It’s so good to see you again! »Of course, this only works once or twice with the same person, so if you have a strong feeling that you’ve met them before (and may have used this trick), choose something more general, such as : “Hey how’s it going? “
As with any kind of warm greeting, the key to success is sending the signal that you are pleased to meet this new person (or see him again if you happen to know each other). Smile sincerely, use light intonation when greeting, and be an active listener.