 | Our tutors have got together and come up with their 5 top tips for doing business in France. Have a read and see if you’ve got what it takes to do business there. |
- Always display correct etiquette and excellent manners. French business behaviour emphasizes courtesy and a degree of formality. So, it is important to maintain good posture - don’t slouch; dress well for all meetings; don’t chew gum etc. Trust will be earned by your proper behaviour.
- Don’t address people by their first names. First names are reserved for family and close friends. Wait until invited before using someone’s first name or the ‘tu’ form.
- Avoid confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics. While discussions may be heated and intense use debating skills rather than argumentative skills to demonstrate your grasp of the situation.
- Learn to speak some French – even a few key phrases can be useful since it demonstrates an interest in a long-term business relationship.
Do you have any tips that you have found useful? Share them with the VLLC community.
