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GIFT GIVING IN FRANCE*
- Gift Giving Etiquette
BUSINESS GIFT GIVING
Selecting
and presenting an appropriate business gift
- Be aware that
displays of warmth and generosity between business associates are not the
norm in French business culture. Giving presents is acceptable here, but
exercise discretion.
- Gifts are
expected for social events, especially as thank-yous after a dinner party.
- Don't be
overly concerned about whether your gift is too expensive or inexpensive:
select something you think the recipient will appreciate.
- Esoteric
books and music are often valued as gifts. Make sure, however, that you
are reasonably acquainted with the recipient's interests and tastes before
making this kind of gift purchase.
- Good gift
selections can also include coffee table books about your home country, or
anything that reflects the interests of your hosts and is representative
of your country.
- French
business etiquette dictates that you don’t include your business card with
a gift.
PERSONAL GIFT GIVING
- If you are
invited to a French home, consider it a rare honor. Bring flowers, quality
chocolates or liqueur to the host, and present your gift before the
entertaining proceeds.
- If you decide
to bring flowers, remember that chrysanthemums are for funerals, red roses
for lovers. A gift of carnations can often be interpreted as a sign of bad
will. Moreover, ensure that the bouquet is in odd numbers, in accordance
with the old European tradition.
- Don't bring a
gift of wine, since the host usually prefers to make the evening's
selection. The only possible exception can be a special French dessert
wine or high-quality liqueur.
- If you have
been guest at a dinner party or similar social gathering in a home, ensure
that you send a thank-you note to your hosts the next day. Preferably,
your note should be handwritten and delivered by messenger. Sending
flowers or a basket of fruit is another thoughtful gesture.
- Holiday cards
can be appropriate, particularly as an expression of thanks to your
business associates. The practice in France is to send New Year's
greetings and this can occur during the whole month of January but not
later.
*Contal, Maurice. France Business
Etiquette - Gift Giving. Executive Planet. 29 July 2004
<http://www.executiveplanet.com/business-culture-in/132164727094.html>. |
Above: The flag of
France
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