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

  1. "La journée de travail commence à 9h" (The workday starts at 9am)
  • Many French offices open later than Anglo-Saxon countries
  1. "On déjeune entre midi et 14h" (Lunch is between 12pm and 2pm)
  • Long lunch breaks are normal and important for networking

Meeting Customs

  1. "La réunion commence à l'heure" (The meeting starts on time)
  • Punctuality is expected for formal meetings
  1. "Une réunion d'une heure" (A one-hour meeting)
  • Meetings often run longer than scheduled

Communication Styles

Formal Address

  1. "Bonjour Madame Martin" (Hello Mrs. Martin)
  • Use titles and last names until invited to do first names
  1. "Vous" never "tu" in business settings
  • Always use formal "you" in professional contexts

Email Protocol

  1. "Je vous prie d'agréer mes salutations distinguées"
  • Formal email closing is essential
  1. "En vous remerciant par avance"
  • Thank people in advance for future actions

Common Business Phrases

  1. "Pourriez-vous me tenir au courant?" (Could you keep me informed?)
  • Polite way to request updates
  1. "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.

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