Scheduling appointments
Ensure that you make appointments for both business and social occasions. While you should strive to be punctual, you won't be considered late if you arrive ten minutes after the scheduled time. There is an increased tolerance for arriving late as you go further south.
Generally, business hours are from 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 or 7:00 p.m. Lunch may last for two hours or more. In Paris, lunch begins at 1:00 p.m. In the provinces, lunch begins at noon or 12:30 p.m. Executives often stay in the office until 7:00 or 8:00 p.m.
Business Dress
The French will perceive the way you dress as a reflection of your social status and relative success. Generally, dress tends to be on the formal side for both men and women, whether in business or social situations. Do your best to make clothing choices that are tasteful and stylish.
Wear only conservative clothing of the highest quality.
Men should wear dark suits, particularly during the winter and when visiting the north. Women are advised to dress simply and with elegance. Accessorizing, which adds flair to even very simple outfits, is also widely practiced here. It is fashionable, especially in the summer, for women not to wear stockings.
When you receive an invitation stating “informal” dress, don't assume you'll be welcome arriving in a t-shirt and sweatpants. For a social gathering, informal more often than not means tastefully coordinated clothes, sometimes including a jacket and tie for men.
The seasons vary, so you will have to dress accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be long, damp, and very cold. There is minimal snow, however, except in the mountain regions to the east. Typically, spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
Conversation
General Guidelines
You'll find that conversations often shift into spirited debates.
Give opinions only on subjects that you are knowledgeable about.
Studying French history, politics, and other aspects of the culture will be an advantage for you in conversation.
Be prepared to answer questions about your own country, especially regarding political matters and its history.
There is rarely a moment of silence, except when the topic under discussion has been exhausted, and nothing new has been introduced.
Welcome Topics of Conversation
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food/praising French cuisine
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art, music, and philosophy
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sports
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current events/history [if you know what you're talking about]
Topics to Avoid
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It is extremely bad manners to ask an individual about his political leanings or how he voted. You can, however, inquire about the political system or public opinion about political leaders.
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Do not criticize Napoleon, who has a lasting identity with the French spirit.
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Refrain from using the standard U.S. conversation opener, 'What do you do?'
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Avoid making personal inquiries in the course of a conversation, especially during first introductions.
If you want to know more about business etiquette, customs and protocol for doing business please
click here.
