France

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OVERVIEW

COUNTRY : FRANCE

LARGEST WEST-EUROPEAN COUNTRY.

OFFICIAL NAME : FRENCH REPUBLIC

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE : FRENCH

CAPITAL : PARIS (CITY OF LIGHTS)

POPULATION : 65 MILLION PEOPLE (approx.)

CURRENCIES : EURO, CFP FRANC

GDP : $41,141 (PER CAPITA)

LEGISLATURE : PARLIAMENT

Attractions

EIFFEL TOWER - Tallest structure in Paris.

DISNEYLAND PARIS - The most visited attraction in all of France and Europe.

THE LOUVRE - One of the world’s largest museums.

CANNES FILM FESTIVAL - An annual international film festival held in Cannes , France.

Religion

ROMAN CATHOLICS - 83%-88%PROTESTANT - 2%JEWISH - 1%MUSLIM - 5% - 10%UNAFFILIATED – 4%

French Heritage and Culture

France is known as a world center for culture.

The French are very proud of their long history and of their roles in world affairs.

The French go to great lengths to protect and maintain their culture.

For example, the Académie Française was established in the 1600’s to be the official authority of the French language.

Etiquette in

France

Why Talk About France?

The English word “etiquette” comes from the French word “étiquette” meaning social etiquette or professional protocol…

France is the largest Western European country, thus Americans partake in many business deals with the French.

French Language

French is the official language

If you don’t speak French, it is very important that you apologize for your lack of knowledge.

However, most individuals in business do speak English.

Communication

The French appreciate conversation as an art form.

They frequently interrupt each other, not to be rude, but because argument is considered entertaining.

They complain that Americans often “lecture” rather than “converse”.

French eye contact is frequent and intense, don’t be intimidated!

Appearance

The French are very conscientious of their appearance.

One should dress in well-tailored conservative attire

Dark colors or patterned fabrics are preferred. Bright colors and glitzy jewelry should be avoided.

French men do not loosen their ties or take off their jackets. Such behavior is considered unprofessional.

French Cultural Trends

Punctuality is treated casually.

French meals are to be enjoyed, not rushed through. Expect for a lunch or dinner to last anywhere from two to three hours!

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.

In social settings with friends kissing is the norm. ‘Faire La Bias’ Education is very highly valued in France.

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.

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Doing Business In France1. 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.

QUIZ

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What is the most suitable gift in a French business meeting?

Bouquets and cards

American flags

Books and music

French cheese and perfumes

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Which quality/s are highly valued while dealing with French?

Education and humor

Punctuality

Knowledge of English language

Good looks

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What not to talk about in meetings?

French culture

Money and politics

Terms and conditions of contract

French food

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What does frequent and intense eye contact mean?

Friendly Gesture

Flirting

Formal Relation

Anger

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Developing business relationship includes

Formality

2-3 hours lunch/ dinner

None

Both (1) and (2)

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Favorable etiquettes for business meetings include

Hands on table

Tie in your mouth

Playing with pen

Long hand shakes

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Which of the following is not an acceptable form of communication?

Logical exposition

Drawing distinctions

Interruptions

Building similarities

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One should not schedule a meeting during

October- November(diwali)

July- august(summer vacation)

December- January( Christmas, new year)

Can be scheduled at any time of the year

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What should your business card not have?

French translation

Detailed pictures

Academic degrees

Large size(larger than normal)

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Which of the following is not a common French phrase/ word?

À la carte

Adieu

Bureau

Clique

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