Richard Branson favours fist bumps and high fives over handshakes, saying they're more hygienic - not to mention cooler
The relaxed billionaire says he prefers to keep things informal and clean wherever possible
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Richard Branson says that he prefers fist bumping or high fiving to the traditional handshake.
The Virgin chief has said that a combination of extreme masculinity, fun, and germs have made him switch from a formal handshake to bumping fists.
"I still shake hands with plenty of people, but whenever possible I prefer a high five or a fist bump," Branson explained on his website. "For some reason, it has become common practice to believe a firm handshake constitutes strong will, or even manliness. As a result, I often end up getting my fingers crushed by overzealous handshakers!"
Backing up his anti-shaking policy with science, Branson quoted a study that says handshakes transfer five times as much bacteria as fist-bumps.
Branson said he switched to the less formal greeting after having to shake thousands of hands at a Virgin London Marathon. "After a few thousand runners, I decided to switch up to a high five or a fist bump," he said. "Since then, I’ve pretty much carried on that way. It’s less formal, more fun, and seems to put a smile on people’s faces."
The business mogul, who is estimated to be worth approximately £2.7 billion, has a Twitter feed full of inspiring sayings, thoughts and bons mots.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments