France: Culture

Appointment Alert

Making appointments

The best time to schedule meetings is 11:00 a.m. or 3:30 p.m.

Business meetings: It’s alright to arrive ten minutes after the scheduled time (not later). Allow plenty of time, after the meeting, as, more often than not, meetings tend to last a lot longer than scheduled. 50% more is a good rule of thumb.

French employees get a minimum of five weeks vacation. It is customary to take two or three weeks in July or August. The balance, which can run to three or four more weeks (see below), is spent a week at a time over the rest of the year.

With the mandatory reduction of the workweek to 35 hours, executives and professionals are getting additional vacation time in lieu of a shorter working week (two weeks every year). Many offices are practically deserted during Christmas and Easter school closings. You will need to consider this when planning your business trips to France.

Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t be surprised if you have a meeting setup for 6:30 or 7:00 p.m. Executives often stay in their office until 7:00 or 8:00 p.m. Staying late at the office is common, especially for individuals in more senior positions. The French will never skip lunch. In Paris, lunch in restaurants really begins at 1:00 p.m. Allow at least 45 minutes at the company cafeteria, 90 minutes at a restaurant.

Business Dress

Guidelines for business dress

Senior managers’ dress is formal for both men and women, whether in business or social situations. If you play in that league, you must do your best to make clothing choices that are tasteful and stylish.

Wear only conservative clothing of the highest quality. Men should wear dark suits, particularly during the winter. Women are advised to dress simply and with elegance. Accessorizing, which adds flair to even very simple outfits, is also widely practiced here.

French women often wear more makeup than American women do. In summer, they do not wear stockings.

When you receive an invitation stating "informal" dress, don't assume you'll be welcome arriving in a t-shirt and sweatpants. For a social gathering, informal more often than not means tastefully coordinated clothes, including a jacket for men. You might say that this kind of dress is like casual wear from a Fifth Avenue shop.

If you are not dealing with senior management, anything goes. It depends on the company culture and on the department you work for. As an example, banks will expect their employees dealing with the public to wear a tie and a dark suit. IT people, in the same bank, will come to work in (clean) jeans and T-shirts.

If in doubt, a jacket and coordinated trousers are a safe bet. You can get rid of your tie if your colleagues do not wear one.

The seasons vary, so you will have to dress accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be long, damp, and very cold. There is minimal snow, however, except in the mountain regions to the east. Typically, spring and fall are mild and pleasant.

Conversation

General Guidelines

You'll find that conversations often shift into spirited debates. The French quickly get emotional, even in business situations. Studying French history, politics, and other aspects of the culture will be an advantage for you in conversation. Be prepared to answer questions about your own country, especially regarding political matters and its history. In a meeting, there is rarely a moment of silence. In fact, do not get offended if French people cut you off when you speak. No harm is intended. You will notice they also do it amongst themselves.

Welcome Topics of Conversation

food/praising French cuisine art, music, and philosophy sports (soccer, tennis, “The Tour de France” (bicycle race), Olympics in season)) current events/history.

Topics to Avoid

It is extremely bad manners to ask an individual about his political leanings or who he has voted for. You can inquire about the political system in France or about public opinion of political leaders.

Never criticize Napoleon, who has a lasting identity with the French spirit.

Refrain from using the standard U.S. conversation opener, "What do you do?"

Avoid making personal inquiries in the course of a conversation, especially during first introductions.

First Name or Title?

Respectfully addressing others

In accordance with French business protocol, use first names only when invited. Use of first names has become common for colleagues at work. This is less frequent when the age or position gap is very large. Outsiders, clients, suppliers are usually referred to as Monsieur or Madame followed by their name.

Only Medical Doctors are called “Docteur”. Lawyers love to be called “Maître” (Master).

When speaking French, use the "vous" form until you are asked to use "tu." If you are under 40, it is quite likely that your peer group will use “tu”. You are expected to reciprocate.

"Madame" is a basic title of courtesy for all women, as is "Monsieur" for men. Today, the courtesy title "Mademoiselle" (Miss) should be avoided unless the person requests it.

The French will sometimes introduce themselves by first saying their surname, followed by their first name; if both sound like first names, this can be especially confusing (i.e. if Maurice Francois introduces himself as "Francois", "Maurice"). If in doubt, be sure to ask.

For casual contacts such as waiters and clerks, names are not used; courtesy titles such as "Monsieur" or "Madame" will suffice. When entering a store or restaurant, you should say "bonjour" or "bonsoir", and "au revoir" upon leaving.

Gift-Giving

Selecting and presenting an appropriate business gift

Be aware that displays of warmth and generosity between business associates are not the norm in French business culture. Giving presents is acceptable here, but exercise discretion.

Gifts are expected for social events, especially as thank-you after a dinner party.

Don't be overly concerned about whether your gift is too expensive or too inexpensive: select something you think the recipient will appreciate.

Esoteric books and music are often valued as gifts. Make sure, however, that you are reasonably acquainted with the recipient's interests and tastes before making this kind of gift purchase.

Good gift selections can also include coffee table books about your home country, or anything that reflects the interests of your hosts and is representative of your country.

If you are invited to a French home, consider it a rare honor. Bring flowers, quality chocolates or liqueur to the host, and present your gift before the entertaining proceeds.

If you decide to bring flowers, remember that chrysanthemums are for funerals, red roses for lovers. A gift of carnations can often be interpreted as a sign of bad will. Moreover, ensure that the bouquet is in odd numbers, in accordance with the old European tradition.

Don't bring a gift of wine, since the host usually prefers to make the evening's selection. The only possible exception can be a special French dessert wine or high-quality liqueur.

If you have been a guest at a dinner party or similar social gathering in a home, ensure that you send a thank-you note to your hosts the next day.

Holiday cards can be appropriate, particularly as an expression of thanks to your business associates. The practice in France is to send New Year's greetings and this can occur during the whole month of January but not later.

Let's Make a Deal!

What you should know before negotiating

Most businesspeople in France read English, so there is no need to have your business card translated into French. However, if you do have your card printed in French, it should indicate your position in French and your university degree, only if it is at the Ph.D. level.

It's strongly recommended that you learn basic French phrases and use them whenever possible. Your efforts will be well appreciated and remembered. The French will soon revert to English if they see you floundering.

When you speak their language, be gracious if the French correct your mistakes in grammar or pronunciation. Usually, people who make these efforts care about the French language and are only trying to help you speak it more effectively.

The French tend to focus on long term objectives and will try to establish firm personal relationships with the other negotiating party.

During a first meeting, remain polite and cordial.

The French, in a meeting, can be very direct, questioning, and probing, so a carefully planned, logically organized proposal is very important. Moreover, it is likely that the French side will focus on the aspects of your proposal that require further explanation. You may find that the French tend to treat the business discussion as an intellectual exercise.

Logic will dominate arguments on the French side. They will be quick to criticize anything that appears illogical.

Arguments tend to be made from an analytical, critical, perspective that is articulated with eloquence and wit. In addition, one's personal feelings or belief in an ideology may enter into the presentation.

Although the French can often be persuaded to change their opinions, they will not accept anything that deviates from the cultural norm. They are receptive to any new information that enhances the spirit of the debate.

The French will judge you on your ability to demonstrate your intellect, and this often involves discussing confrontational ideas and engaging in rigorous debate with them. You will earn their respect if you can handle yourself well in these situations. Don't be too concerned if your opinions differ from those of your opponents; what matters is your ability effectively to defend your position, demonstrate that you are well-informed, and maintain your composure.

Discussions are likely to get far more heated and intense than you may be accustomed to in North America.

In the middle of an argument, the focus may change, setting aside the immediate issue. Try not to be frustrated; these digressions are characteristic of French business culture and sometimes influence the final decision.

Despite the passionate tone of business discussions, don't make the mistake of insisting that everyone agree with you or attempt a "hard sell."

French business protocol requires constant formality and reserve in negotiations. Trying to convince your French counterparts to "lighten up" is inappropriate.

The French tend to be preoccupied with examining every minute detail before arriving at a decision. Consequently, be prepared for a long wait before you receive an answer.

If the negotiations reach an impasse, the French will ask for a break or simply ask for another meeting at a later date.

Generally, the French will not make concessions in the negotiations unless the logic used in their arguments has been defeated.

Power is intrinsic to French business culture; only the highest individual in authority makes the final decision. Therefore, be aware that the people with whom you are dealing might not be the ultimate decision maker. But they will, however, convey their opinion to the person in authority.

It's possible that the members of the French negotiating team will be alumni of the same university (Grande Ecole).

Despite the intensely hierarchical structure of this society, working successfully with all levels of the organization is still crucial to your success.

You'll find that the French, in business, are not risk takers and are reluctant to embrace change.

Finding a way around rules and regulations, when they fail to work, is an accepted practice, and this can be accomplished if you have an influential contact who is willing to be of assistance.

In France, most people with brilliant careers in business or government are products of the exclusive “Grandes Ecoles”. It is only in the past twenty-five years that women enrolled in these exclusive schools and this has become a significant trend. Women are now more likely to become company President or Minister in a government than was previously the case. Very publicized examples exist. Having said that, French women still face challenges in achieving positions and levels of income that are comparable with those of men. There is a “glass ceiling” for most of them. In 2008, only 7.8% of Company Directors were women. This compares unfavorably to the US at 15.2%, far behind Norway at 40.2%.

The current legislature (2010) is considering quotas in boardrooms.

Prosperous Entertaining

Entertaining for business success

Business lunches are preferred to dinners. Actual business, however, is not supposed to be conducted during lunch or dinner. Sharing a meal is intended to help establish a personal acquaintance.

A business lunch will start at 12:30 or 1:00 p.m. and may last until 3:00 p.m. or later if required.

A business lunch is a formal event starting with an appetizer, followed by a main course, cheese, dessert and coffee. It is OK to drink a glass of wine or even two (but not more).

Dinner invitations are usually at 8:30 p.m. and you are expected to stay until 11:00 p.m. at the earliest. The polite way to take your leave is to wait until the other guests are finished with their coffee.

The business drink should not be held in a café, since these establishments are far too noisy. You can usually have a conversation without distractions in a hotel bar.

The person that extended the invitation for the meal or drink is expected to pay.

Reservations are necessary in most restaurants, except in brasseries and hotels.

If you’re making the dining arrangements, a French restaurant is a safe choice.

Wine is customary with meals. Do not refuse wine; just sip it slowly.

Serving mixed drinks before dinner is not a common practice; champagne or kir, however, may be served as pre-dinner drinks. Kir is a blend of currant liqueur and white wine; kir royale combines currant liqueur and champagne.

In France, the wine is carefully selected to complement the food, and, consequently, will sometimes change with each course. Generally, white wines will be served with fish, while reds will be served with meats. A sweeter dessert wine may accompany dessert.

Brandies and liqueurs as after dinner drinks are becoming less frequent. Orange juice, served after coffee, is the host’s discreet signal that it is time for you to take your leave.

Dinner in a French home can be quite elaborate, beginning with a soup or an appetizer. Then, there will be one or two main courses, concluding with dessert.

The most honored position is at the head of the table, with individuals of the greatest importance seated first to the left and then to the right of the head of the table. If a couple is hosting, one will be at one end of the table, the other at the opposite end.

At dinner parties, couples will be seated next to people they do not know. The intention of this arrangement is to introduce new acquaintances and promote conversation.

The French do not switch knives and forks, as Americans do. When both are to be used, the knife remains in the right hand, and the fork remains in the left.

There are often many additional pieces of cutlery. If you are unsure of which utensil to use, the safe policy is to start from the outside and work your way in, course by course.

Pass dishes to your left.

Be careful about adding salt, pepper or ketchup to food, since this may imply to your hosts that the dish is bland or otherwise inadequate.

When the meal is finished, the knife and fork are laid parallel to each other across the right side of the plate. If you put both utensils down on the plate for an extended period of time, it is a sign to the servers that you are finished, and your plate may be taken away from you.

When not eating, keep your wrists resting on the table.

Portions are generally smaller than in the United States, but with a larger number of courses.

You are expected to eat everything on your plate.

You may ask for more water, but not wine. You are supposed to wait for your host to serve you. If you are hosting, you must make sure the glasses of your guests are filled. In a reputable restaurant, the wine waiter will serve all the guests.

Eating well is a priority throughout the country, and French food has many regional differences. Some of the world's finest seafood can be found along the Normandy and Brittany coast; if you have the opportunity, try the oysters, which are unique. Similarly, fresh seafood and fish, grilled outdoors, are representative of cuisine along the Cote d'Azur. Lyons is known for its substantial, family-style food, such as sausages, meats, and cooked vegetables. In the country, the meats and pates reflect the north German influences of the Alsace. As you move further down the countryside, typical fare includes fine cheeses, meats, breads, vegetables, and herbed dishes such as bouillabaisse and ratatouille.

Public Behaviour

Acceptable public conduct

If you can't speak French, preface what you are saying whenever possible with: "Excusez-moi, s'il vous plait, de vous deranger, mais je ne parle pas francais" ("Please excuse me for bothering you, but I do not speak French"). If you say these words, you are more likely to receive assistance.

Expect to be greeted by a handshake; kissing on the cheeks (across genders) is also common amongst colleagues at work. It is not usually extended to outsiders and you should not attempt it until your female colleagues have made the initial move.

Despite the formality of French business culture, people tend to stand close when speaking to each other. Moreover, touching a shoulder, patting an arm is also commonplace and usually within the bounds of French business etiquette amongst men. With women colleagues, you should use more discretion.

Maintaining eye contact is important, but try not to focus too intently on the other person.

Chewing gum in public is considered vulgar.

Keep your hands out of your pockets when speaking in public.

Snapping fingers at a waiter is considered offensive.

Smiling is treated only with indifference here. It will not be perceived as a greeting or as an indication of approval.

Make a writing gesture in the air to ask for the check.

The U.S. "O.K." sign (forming a circle with the thumb and forefinger) actually means "zero" or "useless" in France. The French "O.K." symbol is the North American "thumbs up;" use this symbol to express approval.

About France

Geography: France is at the western edge of Europe. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean (to the west) and the Mediterranean Sea (south), its major neighbors are Germany, Italy and Spain. Great Britain is across “The English Channel” known to the French as “La Manche” (the Sleeve). Surface area is 551,500 sq kilometers (slightly less than the size of Texas). The country is mostly flat plains in the north and west, mountains east (Alps) and south (Pyrenees). The highest point is Mont Blanc at 4,807m. The French can ski in winter and go to the beach in summer. Population: 64 million (2009 est.)

Government: France is a republic with a president elected by popular vote for a 5-year term. He appoints the Prime Minister and the Cabinet (Council of Ministers). Parliament is bicameral with a Senate and a National Assembly. The Senate (343 seats) is elected by an electoral college for 6 years renewed by half every 3 years. The National Assembly (577 seats) is elected by popular vote for a 5-year term. Election days were recently changed so that the National Assembly is elected soon after the President is elected. Currently (2010) the majority party “UMP” is a center right political party. The “PS” socialist party is its major opponent. A number of other smaller parties cover all sectors of political life from extreme right to extreme left.

Economy: France is one of the 27 European Union countries. Its currency since 1999 is the Euro. Gross Domestic Product is $2.867 trillion (2008 est.) making it the ninth world economy.

GDP by sector: Services at 78%, Industry 20% and Agriculture 2%. France is the most visited country in the world with 75 million foreign tourists every year. Major economic issues: tax burden (50% of GDP) is the highest in Europe; unemployment has been close to 10% for decades; economic growth is sluggish; urgent reforms keep being postponed because of public opposition.

Climate: Climate is cool in winter with temperatures below freezing 25 days a year and mild in summer. In Paris, the capital, average temperature in winter is 5° Centigrade and 18° C in summer. South, in Nice on the Mediterranean, winter is 10° C and summer 23° C. Rain is frequent except in the south were droughts can occur.

Religion: Historically the main religion was Roman Catholicism. Today, 85% of the population is Catholic and only 10% actually go to Church. There is a saying that French Catholics go to Church to be baptized, to get married and for their funeral. Arriving in the last 50 years are Muslims (mostly from North Africa), who are estimated at 5 to 10% of the population. They want proper places of worship and the local authorities are not anxious to provide building permits.

Legislation: Laws are voted by Parliament and enacted by the President, sometimes years later. As in most countries, contracts are legally binding unless they are contrary to current legislation. Courts will not expect people to always say the truth and will request documents to prove their assertions. Labor laws are very extensive and constraining for businesses. They define, for example, the work week (35h/week), annual leave (minimum 5 weeks), a lengthy process to let employees go and high severance payments. In addition, the labor tribunal can reverse a layoff and have the employee reinstated in his old job. The use of temporary workers over extensive periods is also restricted.

Labor Unions have a very small member base but carry a lot of political influence. They organize strikes and walk outs, particularly in the Public Sector, often disrupting transports and schools.