When dining in France or with a French person it is considered extremely rude to discuss business while dining. Arrive on time or a little early if possible. If you are going to be late, please call ahead to let the host know. Should you happen to be invited to a large dinner party, sending flowers the morning of the party is viewed to be polite. The flowers will be displayed at the dinner party. When sitting down to dine, the fork is held in the left hand and the knife should be in your right. No one should start eating until the hostess, says "bon apetit." Waiting for a toast is customary before drinking your wine.
When you meet someone new in France, go for the handshake; the cheek kiss is reserved for people whom you know well. French social etiquette also dictates that first names are reserved for close friends and family, so stick to the person's surname until the person asks you to call her by her first name. If you do not know the person's name, it is proper to say "Monsieur," "Madame" or "Mademoiselle." It is also considered uncouth to assume the person speaks English. Even if you do not know French well, you should first ask someone "parlez-vous Anglais?" to determine if they speak English. Interjecting the French words you do know is considered polite.
Doing business in France or with a French company requires you be trusted and respected. You can prove yourself worthy of trust by using proper French etiquette and at least knowing some phrases in French. If you do not speak the language, apologizing can help build business friendships and trust. If you plan on having a long-term relationship with businesspersons in France, work on learning the language; this will prove you are interested in their culture and language, which will greatly improve your relationships. When making meetings, set the date for at least two weeks away. Do not expect decisions to be made at meetings, because in France, meetings are used mainly to discuss problems and issues.
When signaling okay in France, the typical American okay hand gesture, with the forefinger and thumb making a circle and three fingers out, actually means "zero." The proper "okay" hand gesture is to give a simple thumbs up. Eye contact is extremely important especially when meeting someone for the first time. Eye contact shows you are interested. Sit with your legs together or crossed at the knee, never with legs apart. French casual and American casual are two very different casuals. When dressing, dress more conservative and a little more formal than normal. Never slap your open hand over your closed fist, as this is an extremely vulgar hand gesture.
