10 Tips to Win Business in France

France is great country for Irish firms to do business in, not least because of the proximity and size of a market poised for further economic and demographic growth. Then, there’s the quality of life, good food & wine, beautiful landscapes and an enviable work/life balance. And since the election of President Macron, there’s a sense that France is open for business...

But how best to take advantage of the opportunity? Here are 10 tips to succeed in France from Terry McGivern, COO of Smurfit Kappa France:

Tip #1: Start small to understand the market, the players, the dynamics the opportunities

Tip #2: Recognize differences across the regions of France

Tip #3: Learn the way business processes work, perhaps more regulated than at home 

Tip #4: Be aware of the importance of authority and hierarchy in France

Tip #5: Respect the unions in France, much as one might engage with unions in Ireland

Tip #6: Take advantage of being Irish, as the French often favour us with a positive stereotype, one which we should live up to

Tip #7: Hire locally! French people or people who have been in France for a long time

Tip #8: Ask advice from Enterprise Ireland, NetworkIrlande, the Embassy of Ireland, as well as from professionals who can guide you into France

Tip #9: Plan to stay for the long haul. Learning the rules and building a reputation take time. Your efforts will be rewarded

Tip #10: Share your own tips, perhaps as a comment below this article. It will contribute to your reputation as a team player as Ireland reinforces business ties with France

Terry McGivern is a leading figure in the Franco-Irish Community in France, and Vice-President of NetworkIrlande. Professionally, Terry has fulfilled a range of senior executive roles with Smurfit Kappa in Ireland and the UK, and is now Chief Operating Officer of Smurfit Kappa France.

With more than 5000 employees and 50 operations Smurfit Kappa France boasts the top place in France for paper based packaging both in size and market share.

Insights captured by Dr. Desmond McGetrick, who after 27 years in France in business and business education, currently helps Irish businesses establish their market position in France.

Founder of DMCG Consulting, where DMCG = Delivering Margins, Creating Good, Desmond also advances the winning combination of Profit and Purpose through action-research, executive mentoring and leadership training.