Greetings are an important part of communication. There are many ways to greet one another, and in this column, I will dive into my favorite ways to greet my friends. These greetings aren’t in any particular order, and there are even a few tips on what not to do when greeting someone. Hopefully, you’ll feel free to try these maneuvers with your friends. Maybe you’ll even be inspired to come up with your own signature greeting.

The classic dap

The classic dap is known by most people. Even many older folks understand the classic dap. It’s a slap, slide and lock. You’ve probably done this maneuver at least once or twice, and for many of us, we do it daily without notice. You can never really go wrong with a classic dap. It works for your close friends, coworkers, classmates, your friend’s dad and really anyone under the age of 50. In addition to the common acceptance and versatility of the classic dap, it also has room for in the moment adjustment. How many times have you gone in for a fist bump and had to awkwardly adjust to an open palm handshake? With the classic dap, you can seamlessly transition to a handshake or a half hug. It’s adjustable and very fluid.

However, there are a variety of versions of the dap. Some people add a snap once the lock is complete, and others pull in for a back pat. Some people adjust to a thumb grip for a strong connection, while others may even use another hand to drive home the feeling of camaraderie. The best part of the classic dap is the sound the initial slap makes. When you cup your hand, give a dramatic swing of the arm and connect perfectly with your friend’s palm, it’s magic. Nothing beats a good ol’ dap.

Fist pound

First, you must understand that this isn’t a fist bump. In a fist pound, knuckles aren’t touching. Fist bumps are for third graders. Adults prefer the fist pound. I utilize the fist pounds with people I feel a strong sense of cooperation and understanding with. This is where you clench your fist and meet the fist of your pal with the soft palm below the pinky. The connection isn’t as rigid and aggressive as a fist bump; it’s nonchalant and calm. Imagine bumping your buddy’s shoulder to let him know he made a good joke, but instead you’re hitting his fist. A fist pound is like saying “wassup,” whereas a fist bump is like saying “what’s up!” At their core, fist pounds are a way to communicate a strong relationship with a calm gesture. 

Simple hug

This might be controversial, but hear me out: hugs are underrated and underutilized. Consider the last time you hugged a friend. I know that some might be worried about how “cool” they look going in for a hug, but the bond you have with your friends is important and you should embrace the meaningful gesture. Sometimes the classic dap and the fist pound don’t truly get across the appreciation you have for someone. I would save this greeting for special moments with close friends. After a long hiatus, or maybe after a big success, a hug is the perfect way to greet your bro. 

The Zack and Cody

If you grew up watching Disney Channel in the 2000s, you may know this signature handshake. On the show “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” the two main characters do a special handshake to celebrate successful moments and to portray strong agreement. This handshake is done as follows: slap, reverse slap, fist pound and wiggly fingers.

The initial slap is done fluidly with the assumption that each hand will go past the other and come back in a reverse slap. After that, you each come back with a fist pound, before each person then brings one hand up by their ear and the other stretches towards the other person. With open palms, they then wiggle their fingers at the other person, and they shake their heads back and forth. 

This gesture is a unique way to greet people and celebrate with friends. The biggest aspect of the gesture though is that both parties need to have already agreed in advance that this is their go to handshake. Trying to hit someone with a Zack and Cody is uncalled for if not previously agreed upon. However, if you and your homie are on the same page, the result of this handshake is electrifying.

These greetings are all great ways to spice up your social interactions throughout your day. It can also allow for more connection with your friends to have your own special way to say hello or communicate excitement. Try these out, or experiment with your own versions.