France: Asinta Business Etiquette Insight

Intending to conduct new business in France? We offer the following business etiquette tips to help smooth the way:

a) The French are fiercely proud of their culture and heritage, particularly on a regional basis, so be sure to learn about the history, culture and customs of the area you are planning to visit. It will stand you in very good stead with your French business colleagues!

b) Business appointments should be made a couple of weeks in advance and confirmed before the scheduled day as a gesture of good business etiquette. Send out agendas in advance so everyone can be prepared. Check that the facilities you will be using for the meeting are available and ready to use. The French expect a professional and organized approach when dealing with business matters.

c) They do, however, have a fairly relaxed attitude to punctuality and very often they will arrive quite late for meetings, as they consider this a prerogative. You will generally not get an apology, so be aware of this and do not react negatively. Business meetings are considered as an opportunity to discuss issues, not for making decisions. Agreements normally take a long time to reach. Be prepared to answer direct and detailed questions as the longer negotiations take, the higher your chances of success.

For more information about doing business or providing employee benefits in France, please contact Asinta’s partner in the area, Gerep.