United Kingdom: Meeting and Greeting
For your first business meeting, a firm handshake is given to both men and women. Smile and maintain good eye contact. “Pleased to meet you” or “How do you do?” is an appropriate greeting. In casual situations and with larger groups, “Hello” is fine. If the situation is casual, it is not normal to shake hands upon departure.
Friends (not men) often kiss on one or both cheeks. There seems to be a less known norm for greetings in the U.K. so many people don’t know whether they should shake hands or kiss or both. This can lead to a very awkward situation. Take the initiative and either shake hands or kiss (not both) and those you are greeting are likely to follow your lead.
Punctuality is quite important for business meetings and functions. For dinner parties it is normal to arrive up to 15 minutes late.
I just came across your website as I was looking for business protocol tips on the US in advance of a visit.
I live in the UK, and in terms of the post on meeting and greeting, I would suggest it is not good form to kiss someone you haven’t met before. In fact, it would appear over-familiar and the recipient would be more likely than not to become embarrassed! It’s rare to kiss people in a business situation, unless you have an established relationship with them. A firm handshake is preferred. I hope this was helpful.