Business Etiquette in Paris, Your Need-to-Know Guide
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Paris: Navigating Business Etiquette
What you wear, how you greet, and what you say - in Paris, it all matters. The City of Light is a place to see and be seen, where appearances are well-put-together, and achieving that pseudo no-makeup glow takes effort. Whether you're traveling to Paris for business or planning to relocate for work, understanding Parisian business etiquette is essential. Plum Guide has you covered with all the basics and more.
Wear Appropriate Attire
Marché Noir, Paris, France
Parisians are known for their fashion-consciousness, and business etiquette leans towards being très chic. Athleisure is not considered appropriate. Casual-chic means being put-together, simple, and never scruffy. Smart jeans are permissible in more relaxed working environments, but err on the side of formality with suits, skirts, and trousers.
Jigsaw, Plum Guide home in Paris
Greet in the Correct Manner
You're in Paris, darling. La Bise, or ‘air kisses,’ may be common for greetings, but for business meetings, stick to handshakes. Paris business etiquette usually avoids using first names in meetings, and knocking before entering is a customary practice.
The Dynasty, Plum Guide home in Paris
Master the Art of Business Lunches
Typical Paris Restaurant
Three-hour lunches, often involving alcohol, are not uncommon in Paris. Check the menu beforehand to avoid surprises. To avoid outdrinking your client or contact, make sure to eat the bread served with your meal. Remember, in French dining, placing your bread on the table is the norm.
The Showroom, Plum Guide home in Paris
Uphold Proper Dining Etiquette
French dining style is long, formal, and boozy. Impress your French counterparts by keeping your hands on the table, not below. Don't finish your glass of wine unless you want a refill. Business conversations often start after dessert, but wait for the host to initiate.
Corkscrew, Plum Guide home in Paris
Don't Forget to Tip
While many Parisian bars and restaurants include a 15% service charge, adding up to 10% as a tip in fine restaurants is customary. Round up bills with loose Euros in cafes. Tip taxi drivers no more than 10%, and hotel bellmen about €2 per service. Remember to tip restroom and cloakroom attendants unless the sign reads “Pourboire Interdit,” meaning tipping is prohibited.
Get Used to the Meeting Style
French business etiquette emphasizes planning; expect your schedule to be full for the next two weeks. Avoid pressuring colleagues or contacts into spending time with you. Be prepared for lengthy and detailed discussions, as decisions are not made hastily.
Don't Be Afraid to Interrupt
French conversation style involves asking many questions and interrupting, which is considered a positive sign of interest. Embrace the practice, and feel free to interrupt as well.
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