French people often seem unnervingly cool and worldly, sometimes even aloof, especially to Britons and Americans. This is not surprising as they are great thinkers, and they value intelligence and eloquence. Philosophy is part of a French child's education. Logical thinking and a passion for ideas and abstract argument are inherent in the people. This can cause problems for visitors from more pragmatic cultures, such as Britain and the USA, who often claim that the French are difficult. This simplistic dismissal ignores the contribution that they have made to philosophy, literature, science and the arts over centuries. The French are rigorous debaters, and they enjoy exercising this skill. To work with French partners, travel with a well-prepared proposition, and think through the answers to all the awkward questions they could bring up.
[...] But it's important to see France in context: it retains its rich agricultural, manufacturing and service sectors. It boasts only of poverty rate while 20% of children live in poverty in the US and 15% in the UK, according to UNICEF. What about French values and attitudes? In French business, as in other countries', building relationships is very important, and it can often be a slow process. Not as slow as it can be in Asian countries, of course, but much more than in America and England. It is not possible to rush this process. [...]
[...] The French say a business is not a democracy. French companies take time to reach decisions, and prefer to examine a problem or proposition from every angle. It is considered rude to end a meeting if the business to be concluded has not been concluded, which can affect overall punctuality. There is a stress on comprehensive, well-structured and well-written reports and studies. Socializing and gift-giving Business entertaining in France is usually formal in style and takes place in restaurants. Check the dress code with your hosts: smart casual is increasingly acceptable. [...]
[...] How to negotiate with French companies? HOW TO NEGOTIATE WITH FRENCH COMPANIES? What do you have to do when you negotiate with French companies? Understand the free market vs. social contract debate in France. Show appreciation of the French culture. Show hospitality towards your French guests and make sure that they eat and drink well. Maintain a degree of formality until you're invited to use first names. Be logical and consistent in negotiations, and when reach a decision, stick with it. [...]
[...] This reflects the precision of the French language. We build up logical arguments. We like to consider all aspects of a question before making a decision. We believe everything is related. We have a clear idea of what we want, and we argue for it. We have vision but we also understand details. We are individualistic in our own lives but our government exercises strong central control we manage the two. Statistics can prove anything: ideas make progression. We know what is best for France. [...]
[...] Great gifts: flowers, in odd numbers and not yellow; also avoid chrysanthemums (associated with funerals and carnations). Chocolate and liquor. Avoid giving: wine, it may suggest they don't know their vintages. Conversation topics Ice-breakers: France's fascinating regions. Food and wine. Six Nations rugby, World Cup football. Ice-makers: Compare French vs. UK unemployment rate. Ancient Franco-British rivalries: a well-outworn topic. Why you've abandoned French wine for the New World varieties. [...]
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