Greeting

A typical greeting is the handshake, which should be light and quick. Every meeting begins and ends with a handshake.

A man can take the initiative by extending his hand to a woman for a handshake.

Hugs and kisses are accepted between women who already know each other well. For men, this kind of greeting is only possible with close friends or within the family.

Depending on the locality or even the city of France, the kissing ritual may differ, mainly in the number of kisses. When greeting each other, the parties can exchange kisses up to 5 or even 6 times. Which cheek to start with - only the locals can answer this question.

Keep eye contact with your partner. It is considered indecent to look away during a conversation.

Introduction

Address your French partner by his or her last name while referring to his or her professional title or academic degree.

"Insignia" (titles, degrees, ranks, positions) are very important in France.

Use polite forms of address - Monsieur, Madame, Mademoiselle - during conversation without adding the person's surname or first name.

At the initial stage of getting acquainted with French partners, address them as "you" (vous). Later it is possible to switch to "you" (tu/toi) and address each other by name. However, wait until your partner suggests it.

Exchange of Business Cards

The exchange of business cards takes place after the parties have introduced themselves to each other without much formal ritual.

On the back of the business card, duplicate the text in English.

The business card usually indicates the academic degrees of the holder.

French business cards are sometimes larger than in other countries.

Small Talk: Overview

The French attach great importance to creating a network of their own personal contacts. They are able to communicate easily, elegantly and casually in a social setting.

When communicating with business partners at business events, their behaviour can be described as polite and rather formal. They do not like familiarity.

The French love their language and prefer to speak it, while knowing other languages such as English. Check if there will be a need for an interpreter at your meeting.

It is useful to learn a few expressions in French, thus showing respect to your partner.

During negotiations, small talk does not usually take long. The French get to business issues quite quickly.

Preferred Topics

Sports, art, literature, music - good topics for small talk, provided that your interests coincide.

The French will be pleased if the conversation turns to a particular region of France or to items of French pride - wines, cheeses, restaurants, French cuisine in general.

World-famous French holiday destinations, travel, fashion and cosmetics can provoke an interesting conversation.

Taboo Topics

In France it is customary to separate work and private life, so any questions about family, children, sources of income, etc. will be inappropriate.

Do not say anything negative about the things the French are proud of.

Do not make any comparisons between European countries, especially between France and the UK or Germany.

Personal Space

During a conversation, the French stand at arm's length to each other or slightly less.

Gestures (often very intense) and facial expressions are important features of communication.

However, touching during communication is only possible between people who know each other well or are relatives.

Communication Specifics

Status is an important factor in this society. In communication it often influences the style and manners of the speakers towards each other.

Many French people speak English but may not show it. Find out in advance if you will need an interpreter. The French are known for their love of the French language.

The French love to debate, so don't be surprised or take it personally if your ideas are met with direct and rather confrontational statements. Logical arguments backed up by evidence and examples will be expected from your side.

The French "No" does not always mean a negative answer. Your interlocutor may be expecting further arguments to convince him or her that you are right. This also applies to business situations. If you hear "No", try to convince your French colleague again.

French businessmen are quite formal in their communication with each other. It can be seen both in the use of titles, ranks and positions, and in the general style of communication. It first of all means no familiarity in communication, especially at the beginning of business relations.

In France, it is customary to say hello when entering a small shop or café (bonjour madame/monsieur) and goodbye when leaving (au revoir madame/monsieur).