Doing Business in France
Author: Johan Van Hamme
Believe it or not, cultural differences have a huge impact on business deals. So if you think that doing business in France is the same as doing business in Germany or Italy, then you are in for a big surprise. Lets look at a brief overview of things to keep in mind while striking a deal in France: 1. Though Europe is a culturally rich and multilingual place, its safe to say that no country is as possessive about its language as France. The French hold their culture and language in very high regard, so knowing absolutely zilch French may work against you while doing business here. It may not be possible for you to sharpen your linguistic skills in a day, but it is crucial to learn some basic greetings to impress your clients and make them feel comfortable. 2. The French like to conduct business professionally in an uncluttered fashion; good manners and polite conversations are definitely seen as plus points here. Some organizations in France may be too formal and kind of unfriendly; however, some companies may adopt a more relaxed approach. 3. Trading air-kisses in soirees is common in France, but in professional rendezvous it is best to shake hands in the beginning and at the end of the meeting. Also, it is advisable to stick to words like vous, madame, monsieur, and refrain from tu and first names. Once your clients form a friendly rapport with you, they themselves will ask you to change the greetings to tu. 4. Beauty is skin deep and clothes dont make a man! These sentences are far from true in France. In this fashion-forward country, your clothes are the reflection of your personality and how you carry yourself is crucial. Women here are also quite coquette and dress in chic attire for business meetings. 5. The French may not do the conventional business meeting in a conference room. Lunch meetings are very common in the land of gourmet cuisine; yes wine included! Table manners are also vital; so no elbows on the table and make sure to pass the food to the person sitting on your left. Also, remember the host always pays. 6. Being fashionably late (about fifteen minutes) for meetings is mostly accepted in France. This trait, however, is more common in South of France. Though friendly and courteous, the French detest people who are too chummy and those who indulge in personal questions. 7. Make sure your proposal highlights key facts about your company and services. If faced with blunt questioning or mild criticism, take a receptive approach and explain your view in a logical way. Getting defensive or feeling offended is strictly unadvised. Also, dont be too pushy or try too hard to put forth your points. The French definitely believe in testing the waters before plunging, but they rarely change their decision. So if you are interested in doing business with France, be patient while negotiating and sipping on some sparkling Pinot Noir.About the Author:
Interested in doing business with France. Be aware of cultural differences and understand business across Europe. Take the various cultural aspects into account striving for "best practice". Prepare strategies in anticipation of meetings with European contacts. Secure effective integration into European businesses. Refer A Friend To Office1web.co.uk And Win A Trip To New York! Inspire And Save! Whiteboard Specials At Office1web.ie Staggering Stationery Savings At Office1web.ie START A BUSINESS EASILY AND INEXPENSIVELY Market Analysis And Manufactures On Semiconductor Equipment Industries Pat Testing Labels Stockholm Swedens Charming City Cash Assistance For Single Moms Why Everyone Should Have Security Cameras? What You Need To Know About Shredding Machines? Factors Involved In A Sustainable Design For Structural Engineers Printing Templates Online Printing Tool With Professional CPA Services, Los Angeles Businesses Come Out Ahead