text: what are the common gestures that americans use when they greet each other? for example types of handshake, nod head, patting on the back, bowing and etc well, handshakes are typical. men and women shake hands with men and women; there are no gender differences. usually people just grasp hands--there is no holding the other's elbow, or clasping two hands.  you may nod heads with someone you know as an acquaintance, for example, someone you recognize at work but do not have much contact with. this guesture may be accompanied with a greeting like, "hi!" or "hey!"  back-patting from what i've seen is done only between men who know each other and often is a fatherly gesture.  i never see bowing.  in my experience, hugging usually only occurs with family members or good friends.