After more than 20 years in international marketing, I can safely state that cultural differences have not diminished. They remain a challenge for Germans, Americans, and others when working with the French. In fact, even after you put language difficulties aside, intercultural misunderstandings can play havoc with your business relationships.

But I don’t want to warn you off from doing business with the French. The opportunities are there. A bit of insight is all you need to avoid the worst pitfalls along the way to success.

Most managers understand that their own cultural backgrounds are different from those of their business partners abroad. Even so, these differences are difficult to overcome in everyday life. Time management, decision-making, and communication styles are aspects of French culture that are very different in Germany or in the US.

While the French allow more space for the development of personal relationships, Germans and Americans tend to put more effort into practicality and planning security.