Business Etiquette in Paris, Your Need-to-Know Guide

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La Carreau du Temple, Paris, France

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

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

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

The Dynasty, Plum Guide home in Paris

Master the Art of Business Lunches

Typical Paris Restaurant

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

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

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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