Working with the French

Overview

Our briefings are designed for employees working with the French.  We thoroughly review the French people and their business culture and provide practical information on their country.

Objectives

• Learn about the French national identity - from the French revolution and class system through to their interest in the quality of their life.
• Become aware of the significance of the family, social and educational networks, relationships, age and status.  This includes a review of the Grandes Ecoles and why the qualities of intellectuality and refinement are prized in France.
• Understand how typical French institutions work, with their centralised hierarchies, planning and administration.  In particular, learn about Système D. (‘D’ stands for débrouillard – overcoming obstacles or beating the system).
• Gain an appreciation of different attitudes to time and deadlines
• Understand how and when you need to adapt your business behaviour to create a positive impression and avoid giving unintentional offence.  This session includes the French preference for formality and being correctly dressed as a sign of respect.
• Use new techniques for effective cross-cultural communication, particularly as the French are eloquent and wordy and think others are wooden or distant.
• Gain practical tips to assist you in your next encounter with your French partners.

Additional topics for expatriates may include developing future personal and organisational strategies for adapting to the new environment, the four stages of culture shock and advice on coping for the family.