In the world of international business, understanding and respecting cultural nuances is crucial to forging successful partnerships and collaborations.

In France, business etiquette has a strong focus on professionalism, organization, and following protocols. And doing business in France also comes with many great perks, such as getting to visit and explore world-class cities, like Paris, and experiencing French cuisine at business dinners.

In this guide to business etiquette in France, you'll learn all the nuances of doing business here, ensuring you make the right impression and have a successful business trip.

Punctuality

Hierarchy

Greetings

Business cards

Business attire

Gift-giving

Business meetings etiquette

Dining etiquette

Things to avoid

Vacations

Finding success in French business culture

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Punctuality

While you may have heard that the French take a more casual approach to punctuality, the same is not necessarily true in business settings. Arriving early demonstrates your commitment and dedication, and it doesn't need to be more than a few minutes ahead of the appointed time.

However, don't be surprised or insulted if your French counterparts arrive slightly late—it's often a subtle nod to the leisurely French pace. Be patient and don't perceive any tardiness as a slight; it's simply cultural here for appointments and meetings to have some grace time built in.

Hierarchy

French businesses often have a hierarchical structure, and respect for rank is essential. Make sure to greet the most senior person first and maintain eye contact while shaking hands.

Even though gender inequality remains high in the French business world, 34% of women still hold upper-level positions and many meetings will likely have a mix of men and women present. Treat everyone equally but with respect to their role and level at the company.

Greetings

The French value politeness and courtesy, so taking the time for proper greetings goes a long way in establishing rapport. Greet your French business partners formally with a handshake and use Monsieur (Mr.) and Madame (Mrs.), followed by the last name or surname. The handshake itself should be brisk and light as opposed to the heavier, stronger American-style handshake. You should also introduce yourself using your first and last name.

Learning French gestures is also key, as hand gestures are an essential part of nonverbal communication here and can be misinterpreted. For example, it's common in most Western companies to use the 'ok' hand symbol to indicate agreement or satisfaction. However, in France, that gesture means 'zero' and should be avoided.

Business cards

It's common to exchange business cards in France. Due to the language difference, it's polite to have business cards that include the information in both your native language and translated French. Present and receive cards with both hands and take a moment to study the card before placing it on the table—this demonstrates respect for your counterpart.

Business attire

In the French business world, it's dress to impress. The French's keen fashion sense extends to corporate offices as well, with a strong focus on the sleek, timeless elegance for which French fashion is known but in a more formal, modest package.

Quality business attire, like suits and dresses, should be well-fitted in neutral, muted colors. Accessories, makeup, and hairstyles should be more subtle than flashy. Men typically wear ties, and women gravitate towards sophisticated dresses or suits.

Gift-giving

In French business culture, the exchanging or giving of gifts usually only takes place at the end of business deals or proceedings. It's not necessary to bring small gifts to regular meetings, but if you're concluding a major deal or finalizing something important, it's thoughtful to bring your French business partner a quality gift, like a nice bottle of wine. Avoid extravagant or overly personal presents, as they might be perceived as inappropriate.

Business meetings etiquette

Following the ritual of French business meetings will help ensure smooth, effective proceedings and reduce misunderstandings between the two parties.

Preparation/arrival

• Make appointments for meetings at least two weeks in advance. Showing up unannounced or without an appointment is highly irregular and doesn't leave a good impression.
• A few days before the meeting, follow up with a confirmation call or email.
• Prepare materials in both your native language and French.
• Arrive a few minutes early.
• Don't stress or worry if your French counterparts are slightly late.

Greetings and introductions

• Greet everyone with a light handshake, smile, and eye contact.
• Start the meeting with some small talk before diving into the matters at hand.

Discussion and negotiation

• Follow the planned agenda.
• Be polite and respectful when negotiating, maintaining a calm demeanor and not interrupting or talking over anyone.
• In French business conversation, it's common for people to speak over each other. Don't be insulted if this happens, as it just means they're engaged and are very interested in the matter at hand.
• Answer everyone's questions and be prepared for thorough discussions.
• Don't use aggressive selling techniques.
• As the meeting winds down, thank everyone for their time and contributions.

Follow-up

• The follow-up call or email is a very important part of French business etiquette, so make sure you always send a follow-up email or call after the meeting.
• Be patient. Closing deals can take a while in France, as many parties will be involved in decision-making, so patience is key. Don't rush the process, and focus on strengthening the relationship through quality communication, professional demeanor, and formal engagements like business meals.

Dining etiquette

Dining in France is an art form, and business meals are no exception.

• If invited, accept graciously and enthusiastically.
• Follow the lead of your host in terms of seating arrangements and when to start eating. Keep conversations balanced between business and personal topics.
• Following French dining etiquette, like resting your hands on the tabletop instead of in your lap and using utensils from the outside in.

Things to avoid

While embracing French business etiquette, it's essential to steer clear of potential pitfalls:

• Avoid controversial topics, like politics and religion, during discussions.
• Refrain from discussing personal matters unless your French counterpart initiates it.
• Ensure your phone is on silent during meetings and meals, as interruptions are considered impolite.

Vacations

A key part of doing business with French people is understanding and respecting their annual summer break. The French usually take a lengthy holiday between July and August, with many businesses closing up or running on a skeleton staff during this time.

The French take work-life balance very seriously and keep their professional and personal life separate, thanks in no small part to a “right to disconnect” law that went into effect in 2017. That means few people will be working remotely or checking in on work matters while on vacation, so you want to avoid scheduling important meetings during these months.

Finding success in French business culture

Respecting the customs and norms of the French business world goes a long way toward successful business relationships with French companies.

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