Dealing With French Business Taboos

There are a number of matters which are known to be inappropriate and one should be aware of such scenarios to avoid offending your French culture, their view and value.

• Try avoiding a dialogue, to begin with, English, attempt to chat French even if your communication knowledge is inadequate, you will intensify your odds of a concrete partnership.
• Never focus on asking someone’s salary.
• Try not to shake hands as French people prefer ‘la bise’ – the kiss on the cheek, which is done at least twice.
• Address people with “Vous” instead of “Tu” as Vous is more formal.
• Avoid calling people during the lunch break from 12 pm to 2 pm except you have been invited to the lunch.
• French people don’t like to talk or discuss their wealth. Talking or showing of wealth is a bad gesture.
• French administration is very hierarchical & information across these lines can be a time spending process, speaking to the supervisors directly may assist you.
• Chewing gum in society is deemed vulgar.
• Put your hands out of your pockets when in public.
• Striking an open palm up a locked fist is offensive to the French.
• Snapping fingers is also considered offensive.
• Try not to ask French people about a Political opinion or whom he voted for. You may enquire however about the federal policy or public opinion on federal leaders.
• Try not to criticize Napoleon, as he portrays a part of the French spirit.
• Abstain from practicing any conventional communication openers such as, ‘What do you do?’
• Courtesy is of the utmost importance to the French. Ones disrespect will not be simply ignored or pardoned.
• Knowing and acknowledging these issues will make a meaningful offering towards experiencing French culture, developing and supporting great trustworthy business relationships.