France is the largest country in Western Europe with a population of 65 million people and Paris as its capital city. French is the official language and some key attractions include the Eiffel Tower, Disneyland Paris, and the Louvre museum. Business etiquette in France is important, with handshakes, punctuality, and well-tailored conservative attire expected in meetings. Interruptions during conversations are common as the French see debate as entertaining.

2. S

3. S COUNTRY : FRANCE
S LARGEST WEST-EUROPEAN COUNTRY.
S OFFICIAL NAME : FRENCH REPUBLIC
S OFFICIAL LANGUAGE : FRENCH
S CAPITAL : PARIS (CITY OF LIGHTS)
S POPULATION : 65 MILLION PEOPLE
(approx.)
S CURRENCIES : EURO, CFP FRANC
S GDP : $41,141 (PER CAPITA)
S LEGISLATURE : PARLIAMENT

4. Attractions
S EIFFEL TOWER - Tallest
structure in Paris.
S DISNEYLAND PARIS - The
most visited attraction in all of
France and Europe.
S THE LOUVRE - One of the
world’s largest museums.
S CANNES FILM FESTIVAL - An
annual international film festival
held in Cannes , France.

5. Religion

6. French Heritage and Culture
S France is known as a world center for culture.
S The French are very proud of their long
history and of their roles in world affairs.
S The French go to great lengths to protect and
maintain their culture.
S For example, the Académie Française was
established in the 1600’s to be the official
authority of the French language.

7. Etiquette in
France

8. Why Talk About France?
S The English word “etiquette” comes from the French
word “étiquette” meaning social etiquette or professional
protocol…
S France is the largest Western European country, thus
Americans partake in many business deals with the
French.

9. French Language
S French is the official language
S If you don’t speak French, it is very important that you
apologize for your lack of knowledge.
S However, most individuals in business do speak English.

10. Communication
S The French appreciate conversation as an art
form.
S They frequently interrupt each other, not to be
rude, but because argument is considered
entertaining.
S They complain that Americans often “lecture”
rather than “converse”.
S French eye contact is frequent and
intense, don’t be intimidated!

11. Appearance
S The French are very conscientious of their
appearance.
S One should dress in well-tailored conservative attire
S Dark colors or patterned fabrics are preferred. Bright
colors and glitzy jewelry should be avoided.
S French men do not loosen their ties or take off their
jackets. Such behavior is considered unprofessional.

12. French Cultural Trends
S Punctuality is treated casually.
S French meals are to be enjoyed, not rushed through. Expect for a lunch or
dinner to last anywhere from two to three hours!
S Handshakes are brief and are accompanied by distinct eye contact, yet they
aren’t as firm as we’re used to. Always shake upon meeting and leaving.
S In social settings with friends kissing is the norm. ‘Faire La Bias’ Education
is very highly valued in France.
S Gift giving as a business meeting is up to the foreigner’s discretion, however
suggested gifts are books and music, as they demonstrate interest in
intellectual pursuits.

13. S
Doing Business In
France
1. Market overview
a) Opportunity exists for both direct trade and foreign direct investment
b) Struggling to revitalize its economy while at the same time reducing its annual budget
deficit.
2. Market Challenges
a) Companies often point to the tax environment, high cost of labor, rigid labor markets
b) State intervention in the French economy can pose challenges to foreign investors
3. Market Opportunities
a) Economically developed nation with a large, diverse and sophisticated consumer base.
b) Strong manufacturing sector that seeks out quality components from foreign suppliers.
c) Leading consumer of services, particularly in the educational and travel sectors.

15. S
What is the most suitable gift in a French business
meeting?
S Bouquets and cards
S American flags
S Books and music
S French cheese and perfumes

16. S
Which quality/s are highly valued while dealing with French?
S Education and humor
S Punctuality
S Knowledge of English language
S Good looks

17. S
What not to talk about in meetings?
S French culture
S Money and politics
S Terms and conditions of contract
S French food

18. S
What does frequent and intense eye contact mean?
S Friendly Gesture
S Flirting
S Formal Relation
S Anger

19. S
Developing business relationship includes
S Formality
S 2-3 hours lunch/ dinner
S None
S Both (1) and (2)

20. S
Favorable etiquettes for business meetings include
S Hands on table
S Tie in your mouth
S Playing with pen
S Long hand shakes

21. S
Which of the following is not an acceptable form of
communication?
S Logical exposition
S Drawing distinctions
S Interruptions
S Building similarities

22. S
One should not schedule a meeting during
S October- November(diwali)
S July- august(summer vacation)
S December- January( Christmas, new year)
S Can be scheduled at any time of the year

23. S
What should your business card not have?
S French translation
S Detailed pictures
S Academic degrees
S Large size(larger than normal)

24. S
Which of the following is not a common French phrase/ word?
S À la carte
S Adieu
S Bureau
S Clique

25. … In The End
 France language is good for business.
All arguments are entertained.
Conscientious of their appearance.