Today we’ll speak about etiquette in France. First of all, the rules of b.e. are observed by modern frenchmen as strictly as the court etiquette of the times of royal France. business clothes The most important rule - clothes, shoes, hairstyle, hands should look perfect. In France, a business suit is treated somewhat stricter than in most other countries. It is best to dress conservatively. In winter, dark suits are preferred, in spring and summer you can take some liberties. It is important that your clothes are tasteful and look stylish. Women are encouraged to dress simply and elegantly at the same time. Widespread accessories that give clothes a special chic. Appointments Meetings must be arranged in advance. Punctuality is seen as a courtesy. Make sure that the time of the meeting is convenient from a business and domestic point of view. Usually working hours are from 8.30-9.00 to 18.30-19.00. Lunch can last two or more hours. After 21.00, you should not call them at home, let alone talk about business. In France, decisions are made not only at the work table, but also at the dinner table. Business receptions organized in such cases can take various forms, such as a cocktail, lunch, dinner, dinner with the invitation of the spouses. Business lunch starts at 12.30 or 13.00. A business lunch is organized either for the purpose of exchanging pleasantries or to discuss business issues (recently, breakfast meetings have been increasingly practiced for these purposes). In France, dinner does not start before 20.00. Food portions are usually small, but this is compensated by a large number of dishes. The one who invites for lunch or dinner, as a rule, pays for everyone. Rules for negotiating in France Business cards play an important role in business communication. They should not be printed in Russian, most businessmen in France read English. Business cards should be made on one side, as the back side is often used for various notes. Any business cards you receive during negotiations should not be placed in your pocket but in a business card holder or wallet. When greeting a person, it is best to give their name, or you can use the impersonal address "monsieur" and "madame". When meeting and saying goodbye, a handshake is obligatory. Body language Good posture is essential in the French business etiquette. Eye contact is important as long as it is not too obtrusive. The distance between people is rather close when talking to each other. Touching and patting is also commonplace in the French business etiquette. Make sure to have your hands out of your pockets at all times. Do not snap your fingers! The OK sign (a circle with the thumb and a forefinger) means “zero” or “useless” in France. It’s best to show approval by raising your thumb. brief instructions on how to observe French business etiquette ALWAYS Say Bonjour And Bonsoir Always Say Monsieur Or Madame Introduce yourself using your full name Don’t hug anyone Knock and wait before entering a room Interrupting and debating is the norm Don’t change the subject abruptly
