Tips on Doing Business in France

By Deborah O’Connor

 

France is a very popular destination for travelers, but we do not often hear about doing business in the City of Lights. It is not uncommon to hear Americans say that the French are disdainful, rude and condescending. This is usually because Americans do not take the time to learn French customs. Brushing up on business etiquette tips can completely change your point of view.

• Before asking questions, directions, or requests for information, simply apologize for not speaking French. It’s really that simple and the French will appreciate your admitting this and be very helpful.

• Also, start each request with “je suis désolé”.  This means I am sorry, and it is a custom. You are not groveling; you are simply being polite. After all, you are a guest in their country.

• As in any foreign country, try to learn some basic expressions such as Good Morning, Good Day, Good Night, How are you, and Good Bye. If you make no effort to converse it will reflect badly on you.

• Learn proper dining etiquette. Much business is done over meals, and it will only work in your favor to have the proper dining knowledge.

• Always make appointments for business meetings. Be punctual, but do not expect them to always be on time.

• Always present your business card. Have one side of your card printed in French and include any prestigious academic credentials.

• Never start a business meeting with personal questions.

• Address businessmen and women by their title. Do not use first names unless asked to do so. Use madam for all women and sir for men.

• Most of Europe, including France, receives five weeks of summer vacation. They  usually take it in July and August. Except for the tourism industry, France pretty much shuts down during this time, so be mindful when you schedule business appointments.

• Eye contact in France is frequent, so be careful that you are not intimidated. The French are very formal and reserved, so a casual attitude will not work very well.

• Business is usually conducted during a lunch and usually lasts about two hours. Dinner is usually around 8:00 or 9:00 pm.

• Whoever sets up the business meal is expected to pay.

• Always shake hands when meeting someone and when saying good bye. A woman usually offers her hand first.

• Do not give a gift at your first business encounter. At the second meeting, it is appropriate to give books, music, or candy. If invited to someone’s home, bring a nice gift of flowers, chocolates, or liqueurs. Present the gift before the party. Always send a thank you note the next day.

• The French dress very well and are quite stylish. Men should wear dark suits and ties and women should wear a stylish business pantsuit or skirt suit. Never be the first to remove your jacket and tie.

 

 

With forethought, excellent preparation, and a good attitude, you will be successful doing business in France.

 

Please feel free to send questions to Deborah at: www.successfulimage.biz.

She will answer them in her weekly column.

 

 

Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skills necessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contact at:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz