Introduction
France
has a population of approximately 58 million people
and is the largest West European country, approximately
4/5 the size of Texas. France does not have an
official religion, but the majority of French citizens
are Roman Catholic. France is home to approximately
4.5 million foreigners, many of whom are from other
European countries or former Communist countries.
Education is of great importance to the French. This
is demonstrated by the fact that the educational
system is almost free of charge from the primary
school through the Ph.D. level, for French
citizens.
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Fun
Fact
The
French are very aware of their presence, and are
extremely proud of their heritage. They boast of
their long history and their important roles in world
affairs, as well as being known as a world center
for culture.
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Geert
Hofstede Analysis
France
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The Geert Hofstede analysis for France
illustrates their emphasis on uncertainty avoidance. The
high uncertaintly avoidance ranking indicates France’s concerns
for rules, regulations, and issues with career security. In addition
to uncertainty avoidance, both individualism and power distance
are also ranked fairly high, with masculinity ranking the lowest. More Geert Hofstede Details |
Religion
in France
*
WORLD FACTBOOK 2002
In
a country that has over 50% of its population practicing
the Catholic religion, we found the primary correlating
Hofstede Dimension to be Uncertainty Avoidance
(UAI). There were only 2 countries out of 23 that
did not follow this correlation, they were Ireland
and the Philippines. (See accompanying Article)
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Appearance
 The
French are very conscientious of their appearance.
Dress
conservative and invest in well-tailored clothing.
Patterned
fabrics and dark colors are most acceptable, but
avoid bright colors.
French
businessmen do not loosen their ties or take off
their jackets in the office.
Women
should also dress conservatively. Avoiding
bright or gaudy colors is recommended.
Women
should also avoid any glitzy or overpowering objects,
such as flashy jewelry.
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Behavior
Punctuality is treated
very casually in France.
France is a highly stratified
society, with strong definition and competition
between classes.
The French handshake is
brief, and is accompanied by a short span of eye
contact.
Always shake hands when
meeting someone, as well as when leaving. French
handshakes are not as firm as in the United States.
The French have a great
respect for privacy. Knock and wait before entering
into a room. Additionally, do not "drop
in" unannounced. Always give notice before
your arrival.
Business can be conducted
during any meal, but lunch is best.
Avoid drinking hard liquor
before meals or smoking cigars between courses.
The French believe this permeates the taste buds,
compromising the taste of the meal.
Gift giving is left to
the foreigner’s discretion.
Good gifts to present
include books or music, as they demonstrate interest
in intellectual pursuits.
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Communications
French is the official
language in France.
If you do not speak French,
it is very important that you apologize for your
lack of knowledge.
Most individuals in business
speak English.
The French have a great
appreciation for the art of conversation.
The French frequently
interrupt each other, as the argument is a form
of entertainment.
The French often complain
that North Americans lecture rather than converse.
Be sensitive to the volume
of your voice. Americans are known to offend everyone
in a restaurant, meeting, or on the street with
their loud voices and braying laughter.
Eye contact is frequent
and intense, and can often be intimidating to North
Americans.
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HOME
PAGE
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Resources
Geert Hofstede Free
Monthly Newsletter Resource
Page
International
Business Center
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Page authored by: Matt Priest
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