Chapter Twelve: France

Only slightly smaller than Texas, about half of France’s border is formed by coastline: the Mediterranean Sea to the southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel to the west and northwest. In 1994 a tunnel—the Chunnel—was built under the English Channel to connect France with Great Britain. For the first time, French and English citizens could travel between their two countries by rail. France’s boundaries are also formed by the Rhine River—Europe’s greatest inland waterway—and several great mountain ranges, including the French Alps. Ruled by kings for more than 800 years, today’s France is a strong republic and holds an important role in world affairs.

People

Most French can trace their ancestry to the Celts and Romans of early Europe. Although they have regional differences, the French share a strong national loyalty. "Liberté. . . Egalité. . .Fraternité" (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) is France’s national motto. The French also have a reputation for a love of life—enjoyment of art, music, literature, fine food, and education. The capital city, Paris, is a world center for learning and home to many universities, museums, and numerous cultural sites like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Most of the French are apartment-dwellers in cities and towns. About 25 per cent of the population live in rural areas on farms or in small villages.

What Time Is It in France?

France is six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. When it’s 10 a.m. in Washington, D.C., then it’s 4 p.m. in France.

Doing Business in France

If you’re planning to do business in France, here are a few tips that you might want to know.

Greetings

• It’s customary to shake hands when greeting or saying good-bye, but shake hands less firmly and more quickly than in the U.S. A woman usually offers her hand first.
• When addressing someone, use a last name and title. Madame is generally used for all women except the very young. Use Monsieur for Mr. First names are rarely used in the business world.

Gestures

• Never chew gum in public.
• Men should always stand when a visitor or superior arrives.
• Dignified behavior and good posture will make a good impression.

Protocol

• Many French businesspeople speak English, but if you can’t speak French, apologize.
• Frequent and intense eye contact may be unsettling to Americans, but don’t let it intimidate you.
• When meeting, don’t ask personal questions--a formal and conservative attitude toward business is the best approach. However, don’t be afraid to voice either positive or negative opinions.

Want to know more about France?

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