Greetings
On National Salutation Day, greet everyone you meet.
Bonus points if you say, "Greetings and salutations," when you meet them.
If you don't feel like being that formal, a simple "Hi" or a nod of the head (especially if you're male) will do.
Some people will return your salutation. Others will ignore it. Still others may actually engage you in conversation. This part doesn't matter. All you have to worry about is the initial howdy-do.
If the other party beats you to it and greets you first, just be sure to return the greeting. That still counts.
Keep in mind that, if they ask, "How are you?" they don't really care. That's just their normal salutation. You can answer the question truthfully or make something up. "I'm deathly ill, thank you," will sometimes make them pause and think, but not always.
If you reply, "I'm fine. Who are you?" don't be surprised if you don't get an answer or if they say, "Fine, thanks."
How are ya?