9 tips to understand work culture in France

Understanding the business culture in France is key to getting along with colleagues and doing business well. Here are 10 rules to follow.

Jale

3 minute read

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19 Jan 2024

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Working

Are you ready to take on the exciting challenge of working in France? Whether you're searching for a job, attending a business meeting, or freelancing in France, understanding the nuances of French business culture is vital for success.

In this article, we’re sharing the top 9 tips you should know about work culture in France, including the importance of work-life balance in France. Mastering these nuances will not only help you manage your expectations but also lead to successful collaborations with colleagues, networking opportunities or career advancement.

French business culture is characterized by a hierarchical structure, with clear lines of authority. Respecting hierarchy and formality is customary, especially in traditional companies in France. Superiors often hold decision-making power without extensive input from others. While modern businesses are becoming more egalitarian, it's crucial to be mindful of established hierarchies and demonstrate respect.

As part of French company culture, greeting others formally is the norm. Unless instructed otherwise, address colleagues with their surnames, adding monsieur or madame. It's a gesture of respect deeply ingrained in French culture.

It’s also common to greet everyone in the room with bonjour or shake their hand. As a female, you might also come across the custom of la bise — the practice of greeting with cheek kisses.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance in France is seen as a fundamental right for employees. In fact, French law states that every employee must spend at least 11 consecutive hours away from work. In bigger companies with more than 50 employees, you even have a right to disconnect from work after working hours. Not surprisingly, the French work around 35–40 hours per week, with their workdays typically commencing at 9 a.m. and ending around 6 p.m.

With the French prioritizing personal time, family, and leisure activities, you should also make the most of the generous annual leave and public holidays. After all, everyone in France has the right to a minimum of 5 weeks of vacation per year.

In French work culture, punctuality is regarded as a gesture of respect. However, there is an understanding that occasional delays of a few minutes may happen. Nevertheless, honor everyone's time by proactively scheduling meetings well in advance—ideally 1-2 weeks ahead—accompanied by a shared agenda. Make sure to not schedule important meetings in the months of May-August or December, as that’s when many go on vacation.

Lunch is a cherished time in France, not only for eating but also for relaxing and socializing. It’s common for professionals to enjoy a leisurely lunch, often involving a sit-down meal either in a workplace cafeteria or nearby restaurants. Use this opportunity to bond with colleagues and clients, and expand your professional network. Engaging in "le déjeuner" and participating in the post-meal "café" conversation is a delightful French tradition. While the French speak English, it will be good to learn some French to get along with colleagues or clients easier.

In France, looking presentable and polished is highly valued. Invest in quality formal attire suited to your industry. In banks and consultancies, a suit is standard, while business casual is more common in larger corporations. For startups, a smart casual wardrobe is appropriate.

Building strong interpersonal relationships is a cornerstone of French work culture. Take the time to establish connections with colleagues. For instance, conversations about relationships, emotions, and personal matters aren’t uncommon when socialising with colleagues. Embrace this openness as a sign of trust and build relationships.

Prepare for lively, intellectually charged discussions in the workplace. French colleagues are known for their passion and enthusiasm, often leading to animated debates. Don't be surprised by their enthusiasm; it's all part of the French charm.

While meetings are often structured and excessive small talk is avoided, it’s worth noting that meetings can run over or there might be several meetings to arrive at a decision. How frequently this happens depends on the industry and company culture. However, it’s good to know that the French like to engage in healthy discussions and thorough discussions to understand the topic at hand. Besides this, decisions are often made at the top, which means it takes time to receive an answer to proposals or requests. Some decisions even need to be made with the union’s involvement, which can slow things down further.

In conclusion, adapting to the nuances of French work culture is not just a professional necessity but a path towards an enriched career experience. Recognizing the importance of punctuality as a sign of respect, appreciating the value placed on interpersonal relationships, and embracing the work-life balance are key pillars for successful integration.

As you prepare to embark on your French work adventure, these rules will serve as your trusty guide, helping you navigate French work culture. Bonne chance!

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