31-country business-culture briefs — customs stated as common practice, backed by our data.
Initial meetings typically begin with a firm, brief handshake. Colleagues who know each other well may exchange la bise (cheek kisses), but foreign visitors are not expected to initiate this — a handshake is always appropriate in business settings.
Use 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' followed by the surname until invited to use first names. French workplaces maintain clear hierarchies, and formal address signals respect, particularly with senior executives.
Avoid asking about personal income, age, or financial matters — these are considered private in France. Criticism of French culture, language, or cuisine is also inadvisable, as French professionals often hold strong national pride in these areas.
Meetings generally start at the scheduled time, though discussions can run longer due to in-depth intellectual debate. French counterparts typically favor well-reasoned arguments supported by data over simple bottom-line presentations. Preparing detailed written materials in advance helps establish credibility.
French business negotiations tend to move deliberately, with significant emphasis on logical argumentation and scrutiny of detail — avoid pressuring for rapid decisions. Demonstrating expertise and building rapport carries more weight than leading with price. Contracts will be reviewed clause by clause, with legal and technical precision highly valued.
Business lunches are key relationship-building occasions, typically lasting 1.5 to 2 hours at an unhurried pace. Avoid steering conversation purely toward business during the meal; French professionals prefer to build rapport at the table before transitioning to work topics. Place cutlery flat across the plate when finished — a standard dining etiquette.
Standard business hours run Monday to Friday, with a longer midday break common (approximately 12:00–14:00). August is a national holiday month when many businesses operate at reduced capacity; avoid scheduling critical meetings during this period. Meeting invitations should be sent at least one to two weeks in advance.
Key French public holidays include New Year's Day (Jan 1), Labour Day (May 1), Victory in Europe Day (May 8), Bastille Day (Jul 14), Assumption of Mary (Aug 15), and Christmas Day (Dec 25). Easter Monday and Whit Monday are moveable feasts that fall on different dates each year. Confirm the exact holiday calendar for your travel year before scheduling meetings.