Working in France: Business Etiquette

To the outsider, the cultural pride of the French can seem arrogant. The French culture and politics are closely related, and it is best not to engage in conversation about these unless you are quite knowledgeable about the subject.

The French place a great importance on etiquette. When meeting someone for the first time, a brief handshake is customary; in business, the person of higher ranking should initiate this, and men should wait for women to be the first to extend their hands. In social circles, it is customary to kiss each cheek or touch cheeks and kiss the air. The French are known for their direct eye contact, and maintaining eye contact is expected during business.

The French are known for their sense of style, and even their casual clothes are more formal than in many other countries. As a guide to how to dress, follow the lead of your superiors in business.

Their cuisine is something else the French take great pride in, and with good reason. A French meal can take hours and hours, and dinners tend to be late. The person who initiates the invitation typically pays for the meal.