My parent company is German. But we report in through Switzerland which is run by an Italian guy. I met him while he was getting off the elevator, and yep it was 3 kisses to the cheek (alternating). Same thing when he left. I really don't want to kiss my boss' boss' boss.

And I swear everytime I go to an international conference in Germany at least 2/3'rd's of the attendees want to do the whole greeting kiss thing rather than shake hands, even on FIRST meeting you.

I know I'm being narrow minded and north american centric here, but personally I think a handshake is good enough in business.

--splitimage