Refusing handshake...is this appropiate?

I'm going to be honest with you, and you might not like it. First. let me say that I completely understand why you do not shake hands (I am assuming you are a woman). Secondly, depending on the country you are in, many people may not understand why you don't shake hands. I honestly didn't know about this until my first class on World Religions when we had an option to go to a Mosque (I'm a woman) and was warned not to attempt to shake men's hands. If you are in America, depending of each person's differ life, they may or may not know about this. If I had no idea about this and someone refused to shake my hand after a job interview I wouldn't understand, and in my ignorance I would draw some pretty strange conclusions.

I would HIGHLY recommend that you send the email. I would also explain it is for a religious reason, so they don't assume you are a germ-a-phobe. I would rather been known for my dedication to religion than people wondering how I am going to operate in an office with a phobia of germs. I would also ask the HR manager to explain this to the team that will be interviewing you before hand if they have time because you want to make sure you don't offend anyone.

Then, at the interview if someone forgets or if they were not told, simply tell them that you are Muslim and for religious reasons you do not shake men's hands. I would keep my hands to my side or clasp them together...I wouldn't put my hand on my chest, for a few reasons. Make sure you say you are Muslim (even though it is none of their business) because if you don't they may simply think you are in a cult (some people really have no idea about religious other than their own and even then....) I wouldn't put my hand on my chest because this just seems a little personal on a job interview...but then again if it makes you comfortable...Just personally, I wouldn't do that on an interview I'd simply clasp my hands together but really, I've never had to do this, so whatever way works best for you. Good luck!

I completely respect your choice not to shake hands. I think sending the e mail is a good idea just to inform the HR person in advance. The usual gesture you use seems appropriate. No explanation is necessary, when you place your hand on your chest and smile, the other person will understand that you don't shake hands and it's not because of them. They may think you are just one of the many people who are careful about germs, but that's okay. Howie Mandel is a very famous American celebrity, and he refuses to shake hands, and everyone knows it and respects it. No big deal.

well you're not wrong for being true to your religion but just know that you probably would be better off just shaking the man's hand. Most people have to compromise some of their religious beliefs in order to make a living.Like dreads for Rastafarian beliefs things of that nature

What religion are you?

Well let them know its against your religious beliefs. If they're not ego maniac *******, they shouldn't be too offended by the rejection.

You could wear gloves, technically you're not touching the person then.

Thats the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. Just shake the dam hand and move on.

You could always bow down to him.

would a bow be appropriate?

No, not appropriate.