France is the biggest nation in Western Europe, slightly smaller than Texas. France is in between the Bay of Biscay and the Mediterranean Sea bordering Italy and Spain. 58 million people live in France, about 4.five million of them foreigners.
Language
French is the main language spoken in France. If you plan to travel to France, it is strongly suggested that you understand the basics of the language. Your effort will be noticed and appreciated. If you can’t speak French, start by saying. “Please excuse me for bothering you, but I do not speak French” – “Excusez-moi, s’il vous plait, de vous deranger, mais je ne parle pas francais.”
Business enterprise Dress
The French are very conscientious of their appearance and view dress as a reflection of social status and good results. Since of this, be certain to wear effectively-tailored, fashionable clothes. Dark, conservative clothes is most suitable – keep away from bright colors or flashy accessories.
Small business Hours
Most corporations in France operate from 9:00 am to six:00 pm, with a lunch hour lasting up to two hours. Quite a few executives or those in senior positions will keep at the office till 7:00 or 8:00 pm.
Holidays
There are 11 public holidays in France. In 2007, they are:
January 1st – New Year’s Day
April 9th – Easter Monday
May 1st – Labour Day
Could 8th- 1945 Victory Day
May perhaps 17th – Ascension
May possibly 28th – Whit Monday
July 14th – Bastile Day
August 15th – Assumption
November 1st – All Saints’ Day
November 11th – Remembrance Day
December 25th – Christmas Day
Most French workers get five weeks of vacation and lots of will take up to three weeks of this in July or August.
Conversations and Behavior
The most important aspect of French behavior is the emphasis on courtesy and formality. When meeting someone, it is customary to shake their hand. But, handshakes in France are light and speedy – a strong handshake is viewed as aggressive. Good posture is crucial to the French – so be positive to stand up straight.
Do not address a enterprise associate by their very first name unless invited to do so. هزينه زندگي در فرانسه for women is ‘Madame’ and is ‘Monsieur’ for guys. ‘Mademoiselle’ is regarded old-fashioned and should be avoided.
Occasionally, the French will introduce themselves employing the final name followed by their first name. This can be confusing if they both sound like first names. It is fine to ask for clarification if needed.
When engaging in conversation prevent subjects associated to person political views or other private matters. Stick to subjects such as sports, art, music and food. Be ready to discuss your own countries history and political technique.
There are numerous widespread gestures and behaviors that are thought of offensive in France. Be sure to keep away from the following:
– Chewing gum in public
– Placing your hand in your pockets although in public
– Slapping an open palm over a closed fist
– Snapping fingers
– The OK symbol (forming a circle with the thumb and forefinger) essentially signifies zero or useless in France. Use the thumbs up rather.
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