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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote mocks formal agreements by suggesting that shaking hands implies inaction or laziness.
In plain terms
Making a deal by shaking hands means no one did much work.
What can you take from it?
Formal gestures often mask a lack of effort.

Where it applies

  • negotiations
  • corporate culture

Putting it to work

  • negotiating deals
  • critiquing protocols

Questions to consider

  • What rituals replace actual work?

Another view

It ignores the value of trust built through formal interactions.

More from Groucho Marx

  1. Thirteen at a table is unlucky when the hostess has only twelve chops.

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  2. Singing before breakfast is a forewarning of a fight with a neighbour- if the neighbour is trying to sleep late.

    Permalink to quote #137
  3. When a person's nose itches, it is a sign that it should be scratched.

    Permalink to quote #134

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