1. Language
·
Do: Learning how to speak French, even small
phrases.
·
Don’t: Make fun of the language because French
are extremely proud of it.
2. Formal
·
Do: Begin by shaking hands, and note that the
French typically shake quicker and less firmly than Americans.
·
Do: When speaking at the start of a meeting,
stick to the vous form (the professional you) until invited to use the tu form
of speech (the informal you).
·
Do: Use first names only after being invited to
do so. Use Monsieur or Madame followed the surname.
·
Don’t: Women are advised to tone down makeup
colors, and men should avoid showy watches or neck chains.
·
Don’t: Avoid signs of impatience or giving away
too many personal details.
3.
Business card
·
Do: When exchanging business cards, present
yours first and then take that of your French colleagues.
·
Don’t: Don't put it immediately in your pocket
-- treating a business card with respect shows your respect for the person
represented on it, and is greatly appreciated.
4.
Lunch:
·
Do: Lunches are the norm when doing business in
France. Pass dishes to the left, keep wrists above the table and try to eat
everything on the plate.
·
Don’t: Do not begin eating until the host says,
'bon appetit'.
5.
Gesture
·
Do: Maintaining direct eye contact while
speaking.
·
Don’t: Avoid gum chewing, snapping your fingers,
or slapping your palm with your fist. never make an okay sign with your
fingers.