French Social Customs
French culture and customs explained for international teachers.
French social customs vary by region, but there are unique French gestures you should know before taking an international teaching job in France.
Knowing some basic French phrases and words would also be a very good idea, especially if you plan on getting through Charles de Gaulle airport with even a bit of your self-respect intact.
Every country has its own social customs, and as a foreigner or expat you will probably be able to get by with a few minor gaffes.
However, it is best to be aware of cultural taboos in any country or culture.
Whether you are teaching in France, traveling to France, or just wondering how to best interact with your French students, there are certain French customs that you should know.
French Culture and Customs
Knowing French culture and customs will certainly help you to better understand your students and how to best communicate with them and their families.
Here's a great list of books about French social customs from Amazon.com! - Handshakes are acceptable
- Do not address parents by their first names unless asked to do so
- Be prompt and on time for any meetings. They will most certainly be
- Look professional - the French version of "casual" is not the same as Americans
- Any written communication should be quite formal. Quick notes sent home with errors will be viewed as very unprofessional
- The French are not afraid to ask difficult questions. This is not an insult
- Maintain direct eye contact
- Do not exaggerate the truth. It is okay to be quite direct with the French as long as you remain professional
- Remember that like most parents, the French take their parental roles very seriously. They expect the same from you
Common French Gestures
- Raising the forefinger means, "Be silent." Do not confuse this cultural gesture with, "Shut Your Mouth," which is clasping your fingers together in a C shape (think Dr. Evil in Austin Powers)
- If you see a French student tapping his nose, it is a French social custom that means, "I know the answer."
- Holding up both hands could mean a number of different things: "I don't agree," "It's not my fault," or "I don't know."
- When a French student pulls down his lower eyelid at you, it isn't that he is trying to disgust you. It simply means, "No way - I don't believe you!"
- If you need to discuss a student's less-than-stellar work habits with a parent, you could pull an imaginary hair out of your palm. That means a person is lazy.
- Do not lean on your hand and move it up your cheek while talking to French parents or students. This would indicate that the conversation is boring.
- When you are counting, start with the thumb as number one.
- If a French student covers her mouth with her hands, she may be apologizing for making a mistake
Getting to know French social customs and French gestures will greatly aid your communication skills.
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