Visiting Paris, France on business. Need to know about nonverbal/verbal communication styles?

Question

Visiting Paris, France on business. Need to know about nonverbal/verbal communication styles?

Answer 1

Rilifane, your are pretty good....

Answer 2

majority of people in France have VERY good english, so you'll have no problem!! non-verbally, the guys there are serious Romios!! do not even glance at them.. dont know about the girls tho.., coz im a girl! Bon Voyage! :D

Answer 3

The French are more formal in language and behavior than Americans.

Remember to use the "vous" form and not the more familiar "tu" unless invited to.

Address people by their last name or title unless invited to use first names.

When greeting people or saying goodbye, the French always add Monsieur, Madame or Mademoiselle and these terms are interjected in conversation far more often in speech than by English speakers.

People shake hands when they are first introduced, and whenever they enter or leave a room, and before and after a meeting. It would be considered impolite if you do not do so.

Make direct but moderate eye contact with your French business colleagues. Constantly looking someone straight in the eyes which is a sign of honesty in the USA can be seen as an attempt to dominate in France.

The easy familiarity in which Americans indulge is generally regarded as crude with one startling exception. The French are a nation of hypochondriacs and will carry on about "un crise du foie" (a crisis of the liver) and other ailments, real or imagined with almost anyone.

On the other hand, the French love to argue about politics and can launch into involved political diatribes that would be considered tenditious or even hostile in the USA without meaning any offense. Don't think you're being singled out for abuse.

The French are generally better informed about and more involved in  the great issues of the day than Americans. My experience is that a well reasoned argument, even when contrary to majority opinion in France is respectfully received and loses no friends.

The French have a penchance for interminable discussion and investigation of any subject and this includes business. This can cause Americans to tear their hair out in frustration. ( Its so bad that even the new President of France, M. Sarkozy, complains about it.)  

Don't be put off by frequent differences in opinion and rigorous debate during business negotiations. The French will appreciate your ability to defend your position.

Any deal that is quickly made without the lubrication of at least a few long lunchs is probably suspect. When at those long lunchs the subject of business should only be brought up by the host and at a later stage in the meal.

The French prefer risk avoidance and have a low tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity (which is one reason for all that discussion).  Rein in your impatience.

Ditto with what may sometimes be a pettifogging attention to rules and regulations. France is the quintessential Nanny state and the French seem quite happy about it.

Good luck (or Bonne chance) .