**stephb**

[stephbfan]

It depends on the context. If its very professional then you just do the hand shaking. If you want to keep it that way then avoid hugs or kisses. I Have co co workers that I really like but I never do the kiss with them.

He already gave you the kiss on the cheek and the hug so it just means that he feels comfortable with you and you should continue to do the same. Its just easier when the person is close to your age.

Now with the dad, I would not do the kiss on the cheek. Some people see it as disrespectful to the older person. When I'm going OOT my boss always gives me a kiss on he cheek and it feels so effing awkward.

They are the ones visiting so they should be the one adapting to the American culture and not necessarily the other way around.

[stephbfan]

Maybe he is not comfortable with his English so he knows that if he expresses his disagreement, he will have to elaborate more? I remember I used to be very shy when I started learning English so I tried to not speak as much so people didn't notice my mistakes. I still make mistakes, I just dont feel bad about them anymore.

Thats exactly how I ended up dating my ex! lol

[stephbfan]

Sept 4, 2012 21:43:48 GMT -5 mintchocochip said:

Hmm, he's pretty good with English and he does express disagreement at times. Who knows?! haha He's an awesome person to work with though. So far, although he's slow to get things done, he is very warm and makes me excited to visit and learn more about the culture.

I had no idea from your writing that English wasn't your first language. It seems perfect to me!

Well, then I guess its just his personality. Maybe he doesn't like confrontation. And you definitely need to come and visit!

Oh and thanks ladies. I actually started learning English when I was already very old (21) so I was not expecting to even get to be fluent.

[Deleted]

Sept 5, 2012 10:51:10 GMT -5 stephbfan said:

Sept 4, 2012 21:43:48 GMT -5 mintchocochip said:

Hmm, he's pretty good with English and he does express disagreement at times. Who knows?! haha He's an awesome person to work with though. So far, although he's slow to get things done, he is very warm and makes me excited to visit and learn more about the culture.

I had no idea from your writing that English wasn't your first language. It seems perfect to me!

Well, then I guess its just his personality. Maybe he doesn't like confrontation. And you definitely need to come and visit!

Oh and thanks ladies. I actually started learning English when I was already very old (21) so I was not expecting to even get to be fluent.

Just lurking-- I'm impressed steph! Your English is perfect here!! Had no idea it wasn't your first language.