National Hug Day!!

Everyone needs a good hug once in a while, especially when they are stressed out from working long, hard hours. Which begs the question; Is Hugging in the workplace a good idea?

These days, with Political Correctness running rampant, the simple act of hugging has sadly become less of a kind gesture and more of a liability.

According to a survey by staffing agency The Creative Group, 7 in 10 executives interviewed said hugging co-workers in a business setting is inappropriate.

"The thing about hugging in the workplace is that if it makes anyone uncomfortable, there can be legal ramifications," says Donna Flagg, workplace communications expert and author of, "Surviving Dreaded Conversations." "And because of hostile work environment and sexual harassment suits, innocent hugging is always vulnerable to being misconstrued as something else - that is, something not so innocent."

So is hugging a co-worker ever acceptable? Opinions differ, but here are some things to think about when considering a hug (whether giving or receiving) at work.:

Is your work-place more the laid back, open type, or the buttoned-down, ultra-conservative type? You should know (you work there after all) and give / receive hugs accordingly.

If the field of work you are in is health care, a hug may be seen as therapeutic. If you work at a law firm, well, probably not a good idea to be hugging it out.

"In my world, there are times when hugging is the most appropriate thing to do," says Dr. Diane Radford, a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer. "There are times when I interact with patients that giving or receiving a hug is part of the whole spectrum of communication … A hug can be a reassuring way of indicating they will be OK, but I'm there if they need me. One has to be astute and know when a hug is the right thing to do. In my workplace, it often is the right thing to do."

Use common sense. Even though you may be the world's biggest hug aficionado there are many people who just aren't open to letting someone enter their 'space'. Be aware of this.

"Recognizing that not everyone shares the same personal-boundary line is essential to maintaining a pleasant and professional workplace environment," says Roshini Rajkumar, national speaker and communication/image expert.

"Remember that personal touch is not about intention, but rather, how it is perceived by the person receiving the touch. If they are uncomfortable, then the touch is wrong. Be aware of co-workers' personal boundaries before entering into a 'physical relationship' with them, no matter how passive or limited the touch."

Cultural differences are also something to take into account when hugging at the office. In some cultures it is not OK to touch another person, no matter what the case, if they are not a family member or spouse.

The role of your co-worker is a factor also. Hugging can be misconstrued if given to the wrong person.

Types of hugs are important to keep in mind also. A full-frontal hug may not be a good idea but a casual side-hug may be seen as just fine.

Most experts will tell you that it is better to err on the side of caution, especially in today's litigious society.

We huggers all know that a good hug can make a glum day much brighter and help anyone to get out of a 'funk', but sadly the world has changed and the workplace along with it. My advice- A firm handshake or high-five is the best route when interacting physically with any co-worker.