More on Conversations

How do you do?

The response to, “How are you?” is “Fine thank you. And how about you?”

But what is the response to, “How do you do?”

Is it: “Fine thanks. And you?”

How do you do is a little more formal than how are you. Normally, in formal contexts, when two people introduce themselves to each other, or are introduced to one another, they also shake hands and then as they shake hands, one says, “How do you do?” and the other responds with, “How do you do?”

Sounds funny? What do you say when someone greets you with a Hi or Hello! Don’t you say the same in return? Let’s say that How do you do is a more formal way of greeting the person.

As you say How do you do, hold out your hand confidently and give the other person a firm, quick handshake. Look the person in the eye and smile. This shows that you are a confident, trustworthy person; a person one can have business dealings with.

Read this conversation about Maink coming into Peter’s office. This is the first time they are meeting.

Maink: Mr. Walters, Maink Khanna.
Peter: Peter Walters. How do you do? (offering hand)
Maink: How do you do? (accepting handshake)