French Business Etiquette: Time and Communication
Updated on 2024-12-17
French Business Time Culture
Time in French business follows specific cultural patterns that differ from many other countries.
Business Hours
- "La journée de travail commence à 9h" (The workday starts at 9am)
- Many French offices open later than Anglo-Saxon countries
- "On déjeune entre midi et 14h" (Lunch is between 12pm and 2pm)
- Long lunch breaks are normal and important for networking
Meeting Customs
- "La réunion commence à l'heure" (The meeting starts on time)
- Punctuality is expected for formal meetings
- "Une réunion d'une heure" (A one-hour meeting)
- Meetings often run longer than scheduled
Communication Styles
Formal Address
- "Bonjour Madame Martin" (Hello Mrs. Martin)
- Use titles and last names until invited to do first names
- "Vous" never "tu" in business settings
- Always use formal "you" in professional contexts
Email Protocol
- "Je vous prie d'agréer mes salutations distinguées"
- Formal email closing is essential
- "En vous remerciant par avance"
- Thank people in advance for future actions
Common Business Phrases
- "Pourriez-vous me tenir au courant?" (Could you keep me informed?)
- Polite way to request updates
- "Je vous en prie" (You're welcome)
- Professional response to thanks
Important Tips
- Never jump straight to business without pleasantries
- Maintain professional distance initially
- Respect hierarchical structures
- Avoid overly familiar behavior
French business culture values formality and clear social boundaries in professional settings.