Even in rural areas, where people are not as wealthy, it is important to be neatly and cleanly dressed and to wear accessories. Many Chileans consider sloppy or tattered clothing to be in poor taste. The abrazo is the most common greeting among friends and relatives. It consists of a handshake and hug, sometimes supplemented with a kiss to the right cheek for women or family members. A handshake is appropriate when meeting someone for the first time.
Eye contact is considered essential when greeting someone.
Men stand to greet a woman entering the room. Chileans show significant outward affection to friends and relatives. The abrazo is repeated with each individual when one leaves a small social gathering of friends or family. 1 Chileans customarily use titles when addressing people. The title used depends on the situation.