French culture can be tricky to navigate due to the numerous and particular rules for social interaction. Traveling to France for leisure is one thing, and even then they would prefer you follow that old adage, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. But If you are doing business in France, it's especially important to impress and show that you fit in. Here are some French culture tips to help you do just that!

Il faut que vous parliez français.

You need to speak French. I’m sorry, but it is true. The French regard their language as a symbol of their culture. It is so important that there is even an institution, l’Academie francaise, that is dedicated to making the rules about grammar, usage and vocabulary. They take their language very seriously, and it is important that those who wish to travel to or do business with France do their best to speak it. The better you can speak French, with proper accent and correct grammar, the more welcome you will be in this country that is known for being less than kind to strangers.

Vous is the correct form of address.

When you learn French, they will teach you that there are two ways to say ‘you’. Tu is the familiar way to say you, and vous is the formal and plural way to say you. French business culture is very professional, and it's essential to use the vous form of you in your business dealings. This is also the form you should use to address anyone that you do not know, including storekeepers and restaurant servers. Tu is to be used only for friends, family and children.

Harness the power of understatement.

The French have finely crafted the art of understatement. For example, if someone asks you how you are doing after you’ve just won the lottery, you may want to answer that you are doing fabulously. But not in France. In France you would probably reply that you are “content”. If it is a sunny 75 degree day, you may want to say that is it beautiful and very sunny out. But in France, you might say that it is “not bad”. When describing the most wonderful movie you recently watched, you would say that it “wasn't boring”. If you can master the art of understatement, you will fit right in. Etiquette was invented by the French. It is a standard of conduct that is used to show consideration and respect for others. It is also like a secret handshake that lets people know that you are like them. In French etiquette, it is important that you make an appointment (rendez-vous) for both business and social interactions. Dropping by unannounced is just not done!

Dress for success.

High fashion was invented in France around the same time as etiquette, during the reign of Louis XIV, le Roi Soleil (Sun King). It was all part of his quest to overtake the world by cultural revolution. As his name suggests, he wanted France to be seen as the center of the universe. A beacon of light illuminated by fine art, high fashion and proper conduct. So pack your best clothes and get cultured!

Read a book, see a film, or learn a poem!

Historically, France has been a leader in the creation and export of culture. So if you want to fit in, you need to cultivate a little culture of your own. Make sure you have something interesting to talk about. Read a book, go see a film or go visit a museum. Pay attention so that you can discuss it later If you really want to impress, memorize a French poem! Might I suggest Soleils couchants by Paul Verlaine, or for something more modern, Déjeuner du matin by Jacques Prévert. But be subtle. Have these things ready to use should the opportunity present itself, but don’t go around looking to show off. You want to maintain an air of subtle intellectualism.

Business or leisure?

The French work week can be as few as 35 hours. A lunch break can be up to 2 hours long and employees often receive 36 paid days off per year. Work-life balance is something the French have figured out. There is even a law that bars after hours work email! This may be a bit of a shock to people from countries with 45+ hour work weeks, a 30 minute lunch and fewer than 14 paid days off per year. As part of this work-life balance, work and personal lives are kept separate. While it is ok to talk about books, art and movies, people do not tend to talk about their families or personal life at work.

Patience is a virtue.

Punctuality is not necessarily the standard in business. It is possible that you may be kept waiting past your appointment time. Don’t take it personally or as an insult. This is just a part of the culture. On the other hand, it is considered impolite to be late to social gatherings which usually include a meal. The hosts will have carefully planned when guests should arrive based on when the meal will be served. Food is very important in France!

Dinner is the main event!

I mentioned that food is very important in France. It is the culture that made eating things like snails and frog legs cool and delicious, after all. A dinner in France can last as long as 2 to 3 hours and usually includes 3 to 4, but sometimes as many as 6, courses. Dinner is an event and it is to be savored. Don’t think of it as just a means to get full. Think of it as the evening’s main event. Bon appetit!