Work culture in France: 10 key points to remember
Posted: Tue Feb 11, 2025 7:13 am
Are you considering working in France ? Are you curious about the French mentality in the office ?
Entering a new company can be intimidating, even more so if you are moving to a new country! The customs, social codes , taboo subjects, everything is different. However, understanding cultural practices allows you to integrate into the company and avoid embarrassing situations.
So, what behavior should you adopt in a French company ? What is the work culture like in France ? Hours, relationship with management , length of leave , relationships with colleagues ... We explain everything in this article!
1. Working conditions in France
Let's start by looking at working conditions.
France is known for respecting and protecting the rights of employees. For example, we have the SMIC enshrined in labor law. This is the legal minimum wage that you must earn if you work full-time as an employee. In 2024, your salary must be at least €1,766.92 gross per month.
Another right acquired over the years is the limit of 35 hours of work per week. Of course, there are exceptions, but at least France has a legal framework in favor of employees, which is not nothing!
Finally, there is also the aspect of social security. Work allows you to access a mutual insurance company that covers your health care 100% in the majority of cases. In other words, the employee's health is valued and respected.
2. The relationship with hierarchy in French companies
Hierarchy at work in France
What is the relationship between upper and lower management in the French company? Well, the work culture in France is a very hierarchical model. Respect for authority matters a lot. For example, you can develop your ideas, but you must always discuss them with your superior before carrying them out.
It is also frowned upon to challenge an idea laos whatsapp number data that comes from above. Bosses and managers want to be right and have a hard time accepting criticism. If the idea does not come from them, they are often reluctant to accept it.
Similarly, communication is very hierarchical. The CEO of the company always goes through a senior manager who talks to the lower level, etc.
Conclusion: you have to be careful not to criticize your superior and if you have ideas, talk to your manager before taking action!
3. Politeness and greetings in the office
Whether in the professional world or in personal life, the French are very particular about good manners.
In France, it is perfectly normal to greet all your colleagues in the morning and to say goodbye in the evening. But how do you greet your colleagues ? Should you kiss, shake hands or simply say hello? The French often kiss each other at work, but it all depends on the company, your relationship with your colleagues, the context, etc.
My advice is to let the other person decide. If they offer you their hand, you shake their hand and if they offer you their cheek, you kiss them.
Another important point: you should address your colleagues informally or formally depending on their position in the company. If you hesitate, it is better to use "vous".
Entering a new company can be intimidating, even more so if you are moving to a new country! The customs, social codes , taboo subjects, everything is different. However, understanding cultural practices allows you to integrate into the company and avoid embarrassing situations.
So, what behavior should you adopt in a French company ? What is the work culture like in France ? Hours, relationship with management , length of leave , relationships with colleagues ... We explain everything in this article!
1. Working conditions in France
Let's start by looking at working conditions.
France is known for respecting and protecting the rights of employees. For example, we have the SMIC enshrined in labor law. This is the legal minimum wage that you must earn if you work full-time as an employee. In 2024, your salary must be at least €1,766.92 gross per month.
Another right acquired over the years is the limit of 35 hours of work per week. Of course, there are exceptions, but at least France has a legal framework in favor of employees, which is not nothing!
Finally, there is also the aspect of social security. Work allows you to access a mutual insurance company that covers your health care 100% in the majority of cases. In other words, the employee's health is valued and respected.
2. The relationship with hierarchy in French companies
Hierarchy at work in France
What is the relationship between upper and lower management in the French company? Well, the work culture in France is a very hierarchical model. Respect for authority matters a lot. For example, you can develop your ideas, but you must always discuss them with your superior before carrying them out.
It is also frowned upon to challenge an idea laos whatsapp number data that comes from above. Bosses and managers want to be right and have a hard time accepting criticism. If the idea does not come from them, they are often reluctant to accept it.
Similarly, communication is very hierarchical. The CEO of the company always goes through a senior manager who talks to the lower level, etc.
Conclusion: you have to be careful not to criticize your superior and if you have ideas, talk to your manager before taking action!
3. Politeness and greetings in the office
Whether in the professional world or in personal life, the French are very particular about good manners.
In France, it is perfectly normal to greet all your colleagues in the morning and to say goodbye in the evening. But how do you greet your colleagues ? Should you kiss, shake hands or simply say hello? The French often kiss each other at work, but it all depends on the company, your relationship with your colleagues, the context, etc.
My advice is to let the other person decide. If they offer you their hand, you shake their hand and if they offer you their cheek, you kiss them.
Another important point: you should address your colleagues informally or formally depending on their position in the company. If you hesitate, it is better to use "vous".