Job Interview in French - Tips
Looking for a job interview in one of the 32 French speaking countries? It's never too late to learn a few tips to ensure all the odds are on your side. There are a few differences between the Anglo-saxon and the French culture when it comes to address a recruiter.
Address the recruiter as "Madame" or "Monsieur In the US, UK or Australia it is usual to address a business contact by their first name. Not in France. It would be perceived as being too friendly/personal and would make the whole conversation awkward.
Always use "vous", not "tu" Formal "you" in French (vous) is to be used with anyone you have never met or anyone who has a higher rank than you in a business environment.
Do not kiss The French love to kiss... a lot! However, we would not kiss a recruiter for the same reasons as above. Regardless of your gender and the gender of the recruiter, shaking hands firmly would be the appropriate.
Personal questions In the USA, it is not proper for a recruiter to ask personal questions (marital status, how many children you have, interests etc..), however, it is in France. There is a good chance you will be asked these sort of questions so be prepared and don't be offended by it.
Stay on point
Sometimes, it is okay to chit-chat with the recruiter either at the start or the end of the interview in some countries. Avoid this in France. Stay focus, answer all the questions honestly and cut the chit-chat as it would be considered unprofessional and may even suggest that you're not serious.
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