A Reflection on Life and Business in France
Studying in France has taught me the importance of confidence, respect and adaptability while in another country. First, in regards to confidence I have realized that the best way to build confidence is to experience. Whether it’s trying out local phrases or asking locals how to say certain words, it sets you up for more quality and genuine conversations in the future. Confidence can be ordered in the local language or helping grab something for someone in the store even if the communication isn’t fully there. Second, respect is key to belonging and being respected in another culture. For example, I have learned a simple Bonjour or Merci at the beginning and end of a conversation shows you care about the culture and are making a genuine attempt to understand language and customs. Lastly, I have grown and been rewarded for my ability to adapt. Whether it’s learning how to ask for water or where the restroom is or having to find the correct train station when the location gets changed. Instead of letting the anxiety take hold or choosing to take the easy way, I’ve learned to step out of my comfort zone and adapt.
Business in France is unique in their focus on taking time off, slow and personal service and overall emphasis on product quality. The first thing I learned is that many businesses within France and Strasbourg choose to close for two hours in the middle of the day and do not do business on Sunday. In America, businesses only take holidays off or not even that. It shows an emphasis on break and spending time doing things that matter, for example their family and church lives. Second, the time that dinner and lunch take is much different than in America. American culture prides itself on convenience and speed, whereas in France a standard meal can take anywhere from 2-3 hours. This is because food is seen as a time to spend with family or friends and appreciate being in company rather than moving on to the next thing. Lastly, French businesses pride themselves on making quality products. Whether it’s a gift shop or Artisan local shop, the French businesses in Strasbourg sell high quality expensive products that are very worth the value. Overall, France does business in a more family, friend focused time frame, where quality is much more important than the time it takes.
The biggest surprise I’ve faced in France is the lack of fast food. The quality of the food in restaurants all around town is much better than your local American town, but the speed in which it’s made is much slower. Although at first I thought it would be nice to always get a high quality meal. I’ve slowly begun to look for places where I can get a quick bite and not have to worry about making it to class or studies. It definitely causes you to manage your time in a different way. Where in the U.S. you can get a McDonald’s burger in 5 minutes, the French have tables and multiple floors in their mcdonalds to encourage you to sit and spend time even in a fast food setting.
Overall, France has shown me how life can really be slowed down. The American “always move on to the next thing” idea is not how the French do business, conversation and life in general. I have made lasting connections to people within the local culture and have found myself embracing life in Strasbourg in the same ways I enjoy life in the U.S.
