French Society, Culture and Business Etiquette

General Etiquette & Protocol Guidelines

Meeting Etiquette

• The handshake is a common form of greeting.
• Friends may greet each other by lightly kissing on the cheeks, once on the left cheek and once on the right cheek.
• First names are reserved for family and close friends. Wait until invited before using someone's first name.
• You are expected to say 'bonjour' or 'bonsoir' (good morning and good evening) with the honorific title Monsieur or Madame when entering a shop and 'au revoir' (good-bye) when leaving.
• If you live in an apartment building, it is polite to greet your neighbours with the same appellation.

Gift Giving Etiquette

• Flowers should be given in odd numbers but not 13, which is considered unlucky.
• Some older French retain old-style prohibitions against receiving certain flowers: White lilies or chrysanthemums as they are used at funerals; red carnations as they symbolize bad will; any white flowers as they are used at weddings.
• Prohibitions about flowers are not generally followed by the young. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of conservatism.
• If you give wine, make sure it is of the highest quality you can afford. The French appreciate their wines.
• Gifts are usually opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a French house for dinner:
• Arrive on time. Under no circumstances should you arrive more than 10 minutes later than invited without telephoning to explain you have been detained.
• The further south you go in the country, the more flexible time is.
• If invited to a large dinner party, especially in Paris, send flowers the morning of the occasion so that they may be displayed that evening.
• Dress well. The French are fashion conscious and their version of casual is not as relaxed as in many western countries.

Table manners:

• Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• If there is a seating plan, you may be directed to a particular seat. • Do not begin eating until the hostess says 'bon appetit'.
• If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with the fork over the knife.
• Do not rest your elbows on the table, although your hands should be visible and not in your lap. • Finish everything on your plate.
• Do not cut salad with a knife and fork. Fold the lettuce on to your fork. • Peel and slice fruit before eating it.
• Leave your wineglass nearly full if you do not want more.

Business Etiquette Basics

Relationships & Communication

• French business behaviour emphasizes courtesy and a degree of formality.
• Mutual trust and respect is required to get things done.
• Trust is earned through proper behaviour.
• Creating a wide network of close personal business alliances is very important.
• If you do not speak French, an apology for not knowing their language may aid in developing a relationship.
• It is always a good idea to learn a few key phrases, since it demonstrates an interest in a long-term relationship.
• The way a French person communicates is often predicated by their social status, education level, and which part of the country they were raised.
• In business, the French often appear extremely direct because they are not afraid of asking probing questions.
• Written communication is formal. Secretaries often schedule meetings and may be used to relay information from your French business colleagues.

Business Meetings Etiquette

• Appointments are necessary and should be made at least 2 weeks in advance.
• Appointments may be made in writing or by telephone and, depending upon the level of the person you are meeting, are often handled by the secretary.
• Do not try to schedule meetings during July or August, as this is a common vacation period.
• If you expect to be delayed, telephone immediately and offer an explanation.
• Meetings are to discuss issues, not to make decisions.
• Avoid exaggerated claims, as the French do not appreciate hyperbole.

Business Negotiation

• French business emphasizes courtesy and a fair degree of formality.
• Wait to be told where to sit.
• Maintain direct eye contact while speaking.
• Business is conducted slowly. You will have to be patient and not appear ruffled by the strict adherence to protocol.
• Avoid confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics. It can be counterproductive.
• The French will carefully analyze every detail of a proposal, regardless of how minute. • Business is hierarchical. Decisions are generally made at the top of the company.
• The French are often impressed with good debating skills that demonstrate an intellectual grasp of the situation and all the ramifications.
• Never attempt to be overly friendly. The French generally compartmentalize their business and personal lives.
• Discussions may be heated and intense.
• High-pressure sales tactics should be avoided. The French are more receptive to a low-key, logical presentation that explains the advantages of a proposal in full.
• When an agreement is reached, the French may insist it be formalized in an extremely comprehensive, precisely worded contract.

Dress Etiquette

• Business dress is understated and stylish.
• Men should wear dark-coloured, conservative business suits for the initial meeting. How you dress later is largely dependent upon the personality of the company with which you are conducting business.
• Women should wear either business suits or elegant dresses in soft colours.
• The French like the finer things in life, so wear good quality accessories.

Business Cards

• Business cards are exchanged after the initial introductions without formal ritual.
• Have the other side of your business card translated into French. Although not a business necessity, it demonstrates an attention to detail that will be appreciated.
• Include any advanced academic degrees on your business card.
• French business cards are often a bit larger than in many other countries.