A Guide to understand the French

Final Paper:
Date: 11/06/2012 Class: Intercultural Management

Outline 1. Abstract……………………………………………………………………………….3 2. Cultural Analysis………………………………………..…………………………....4
2.1. Categorizing Cultures………………………………………………………..…4
2.1.1. Multi-Active Type...........................................................................4
2.1.2. Linear-Active Type........................................................................5
2.1.3. Reactive Type...............................................................................5
2.1.4. Hybrid Type..................................................................................5
2.1.5. Type of France..............................................................................6
2.2. Concept of Time.........................................................................................6
2.2.1. Linear Time...................................................................................6
2.2.2. Multi-Active Time...........................................................................7
2.2.3 Cyclic Time....................................................................................8
2.2.4. Concept of Time in France............................................................8
2.3. Communication Approach…………………………………………….……….9
2.3.1. High-Context and Low-Context Cultures…………………..……...9
2.3.2. Communication in France…………………………………………..10
2.4. Manners and Mannerism……………………………………………………..11
2.4.1. Dining Manners……………………………………………………...11
2.4.2. Manners in Society………………………………………………….12
2.4.3. Business Etiquette…………………………………………………..12
2.5. Status, Leadership and Organization………………………………………13
3. Major Differences and Similarities between Germany and France….…………...15
4. Conclusion and Recommendation……………………………………………………16
5. References………………………………………………………………………………18

1. Abstract

Culture is “the collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one category of people from another“ (Geert Hofstede)

This definition of culture by Hofstede shows that every nation has its own culture developed through cultural conditioning. This is a process which everyone passes through since birth. Via cultural conditioning people are taught regional concepts, which become core beliefs about what is good or bad, what is right or wrong, and what is normal or abnormal. Learning those concepts builds the foundation for being a full member of one’s society. The habits, values, and persuasions within the culture are nearly impossible to discard.
Due to the growing globalization process people are more often confronted with other and unknown cultures. People always have certain beliefs and prejudices about cultures of other nations. As a result, experiences, interpretations, and feelings are influenced by people’s cultural colored perception. Looking through one´s cultural spectacles often leads to culture shocks, which include feelings of confusion, misunderstanding, and insecurity.
As we all need to live and work in this diverse world it is important to get along with each other and to overcome cultural misunderstandings. Therefore, we have to understand the subjective nature of national and ethnic values. It is important to learn and be aware of the habits, values, and beliefs of other countries and to find a way to live together in peace.
This paper gives an overview about the French cultural structure and shall help handling conversations and interactions when being confronted with French people. First cultural categories and the different use of time are explained. The next paragraphs illustrate the communication approach, manners, and the form of status, leadership, and organization. Before bringing this paper to an end major differences and also similarities between France and Germany are shown.

2. Cultural Analysis
One can analyze and differ the cultures of different nations by certain concepts that are