France is a modern country encompassing a wealth of landscapes and identities. It is home to a diverse multicultural population partly due to its colonial past and a number of overseas territories.
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France Today
France is the largest Western European country and it takes immense pride in its history and prominent culture. Its motto ‘Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité’ stems from the French Revolution. These values are also incorporated in the French constitution and are commonly seen on official documents, coins or buildings.
Such cultural values and identities play a crucial role in French business culture where appropriate conduct, mutual trust and understanding are the key to your organisation’s success.
French Culture – Key Concepts and Values
Centralisation – France has a long and notable history of centralisation reflected in its geography, transportation system, government and business. This outlook originated in the power and authority of the earlier monarchs and remains a significant part of the French presidency today despite a democratic society. In the world of French business, centralisation exists in the concentrated authority that generally lies with one individual.
Individualism and individuality – France’s distinguished individuality is an important cultural characteristic that describes the French passion for uniqueness and freedom of opinion, both in society and in business. However, individuality should not be confused with the term individualism which is equally essential in France but refers to having a separate but equal sense of place in society. Individualism in the French business environment means that a greater concern is placed on social status and being judged as an individual.
Uncertainty avoidance – One aspect of French culture that has a major influence on business in France is the country’s attention to rules and regulations. The French have a low tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity which, for those wishing to conduct business in France, is significant in their reluctance to take risks.
Doing Business in France
France has always played a crucial part in both European and world events. After numerous political and social upheavals, the loss of an Empire and two World Wars, France has emerged as a vital player in the European Community with a strong sense of pride and heritage.
Today, the French business market boasts a variety of international investors and is an important world supplier of agricultural and industrial products. In the course of the global financial crisis, France’s economy stagnated and austerity measures had to be implemented. The current government has maintained France’s commitment to meeting the budget deficit target. For those organisations wishing to enter the French business environment, an understanding of the country’s culture and business practices is vital to possess.
France Business Part 1 - Working in France: Working practices in France
Structure and hierarchy in French companies
Working relationships in France
France Business Part 2 - Doing Business in France: Business practices
Business Etiquette (Do’s and Don’ts)
DO maintain an air of formality and reserve during all business practices and at all levels within the business using titles wherever possible.
DO make direct but moderate eye contact with your French business colleagues.
DO try to learn a few basic French phrases and use them whenever possible. Your efforts will not go unnoticed.
DON’T discuss your family or other personal matters during negotiations.
DON’T be put off by frequent differences in opinion and rigorous debate during business negotiations. The French will appreciate your ability to defend your position.
DON’T rush or display signs of impatience with your French counterparts. The French take their time before arriving at a decision.
French Culture Quiz – True or False
1. In France, the ‘OK’ sign is the equivalent of the figure ‘nought’ or ‘zero’.
2. Cheese is often served at the beginning of the meal.
3. Interrupting during business meetings is a sign of disrespect. You should remain silent until your counterpart has finished speaking.
4. Using the ‘tu’ form with business associates is acceptable.
5. If your host asks you if you would like more food, tell them no even if you would like some.
French Culture Quiz – Answers
1. True.
2. False. The French usually serve cheese after the main meal and before a sweet dessert.
3. False. Interrupting is a sign that you are interested in what your business colleagues have to say.
4. False. Using the ‘tu’ form is only appropriate once you get to know someone, if you have been invited to use it with the person or if you are speaking to children.
5. True. Saying no is polite, but often the host will insist that you have some more.
France Today
France is the largest Western European country and it takes immense pride in its history and prominent culture. Its motto ‘Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité’ stems from the French Revolution. These values are also incorporated in the French constitution and are commonly seen on official documents, coins or buildings.
Such cultural values and identities play a crucial role in French business culture where appropriate conduct, mutual trust and understanding are the key to your organisation’s success.
French Culture – Key Concepts and Values
Centralisation – France has a long and notable history of centralisation reflected in its geography, transportation system, government and business. This outlook originated in the power and authority of the earlier monarchs and remains a significant part of the French presidency today despite a democratic society. In the world of French business, centralisation exists in the concentrated authority that generally lies with one individual.
Individualism and individuality – France’s distinguished individuality is an important cultural characteristic that describes the French passion for uniqueness and freedom of opinion, both in society and in business. However, individuality should not be confused with the term individualism which is equally essential in France but refers to having a separate but equal sense of place in society. Individualism in the French business environment means that a greater concern is placed on social status and being judged as an individual.
Uncertainty avoidance – One aspect of French culture that has a major influence on business in France is the country’s attention to rules and regulations. The French have a low tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity which, for those wishing to conduct business in France, is significant in their reluctance to take risks.
Doing Business in France
France has always played a crucial part in both European and world events. After numerous political and social upheavals, the loss of an Empire and two World Wars, France has emerged as a vital player in the European Community with a strong sense of pride and heritage.
Today, the French business market boasts a variety of international investors and is an important world supplier of agricultural and industrial products. In the course of the global financial crisis, France’s economy stagnated and austerity measures had to be implemented. The current government has maintained France’s commitment to meeting the budget deficit target. For those organisations wishing to enter the French business environment, an understanding of the country’s culture and business practices is vital to possess.
France Business Part 1 - Working in France: Working practices in France
Structure and hierarchy in French companies
Working relationships in France
France Business Part 2 - Doing Business in France: Business practices
Business Etiquette (Do’s and Don’ts)
DO maintain an air of formality and reserve during all business practices and at all levels within the business using titles wherever possible.
DO make direct but moderate eye contact with your French business colleagues.
DO try to learn a few basic French phrases and use them whenever possible. Your efforts will not go unnoticed.
DON’T discuss your family or other personal matters during negotiations.
DON’T be put off by frequent differences in opinion and rigorous debate during business negotiations. The French will appreciate your ability to defend your position.
DON’T rush or display signs of impatience with your French counterparts. The French take their time before arriving at a decision.
French Culture Quiz – True or False
1. In France, the ‘OK’ sign is the equivalent of the figure ‘nought’ or ‘zero’.
2. Cheese is often served at the beginning of the meal.
3. Interrupting during business meetings is a sign of disrespect. You should remain silent until your counterpart has finished speaking.
4. Using the ‘tu’ form with business associates is acceptable.
5. If your host asks you if you would like more food, tell them no even if you would like some.
French Culture Quiz – Answers
1. True.
2. False. The French usually serve cheese after the main meal and before a sweet dessert.
3. False. Interrupting is a sign that you are interested in what your business colleagues have to say.
4. False. Using the ‘tu’ form is only appropriate once you get to know someone, if you have been invited to use it with the person or if you are speaking to children.
5. True. Saying no is polite, but often the host will insist that you have some more.
