What to wear
French people are really good dressers, which means they most likely bring it as well in the corporate scene. Males are expected to be in dark-colored suits over white or pastel-colored shirts and partnered with formal trousers and a tie. A nicely shined leather shoe should go along with this. Females are expected to wear conservative corporate clothing by wearing a dress with appropriate knee-level length. This dress may also be topped with a coat and be partnered with heels. Take note that for both males and females, bright-colored clothing should be avoided inside the office.

What to bring
Always bring business cards with you most especially when meeting someone for the first time. As a courtesy to your counterpart, one side of your business card should be translated into French. When you are presenting to a local, do not be surprised if they take their time to ask questions, discuss thoroughly all aspects, or clarify details of your presentation. Bring all the necessary documents and materials needed for your meeting, and make sure a French version is ready. Lastly, if you are not confident with your French and you are not sure if your counterparts are comfortable speaking in English all throughout, it is best if you bring a translator with you.

What to expect
Expect French people to give value with punctuality. They appreciate it when you respect matters that concern their time. Also, expect a formality among business dealings with locals, courtesy and formality are part of their culture and may need to be observed during transactions and discussions. Although locals may understand and speak English, except that they would prefer not to use it and would prefer French instead. The locals take pride in their language and you may be the one who needs to adjust to that.

What you should know
The French business culture is quite hierarchical and follows a structure. People in higher positions are given much courtesy and are often the ones who get to have more influence in business discussions. Since most decisions are made at the top of the organizational structure, people who may be rank-and-file don’t usually direct their opinions to upper management.

Female laborers’ opportunities in the corporate scene have gone through several changes throughout the decades, currently, one can say that France is a welcoming society for women who would like to work. There are not many restrictions with French women taking high positions in the country, with over 48% of the labor force in France being dominated by women, the nation has already been accustomed to females participating in several types and levels of work.

Women and men are entitled to paid absences in France. When it comes to corporate leaves, the following are applied in France: