Is speaking French necessary in France?

October 17, 2024

Is speaking French necessary in France?

This is a question my international clients frequently ask me. The answer is YES.

Speaking French is necessary for most jobs in France, especially in fields where communication with clients, colleagues, or the public is key. Even in high-level or international expat positions, speaking French is a significant advantage. Integrating into French workplace culture often involves informal conversations, social gatherings, and networking—nearly all of which happen in French.
Even if your job is in an English-speaking environment, you’ll still face situations like lunches, coffee chats, and meetings where speaking French is crucial to fully engage.

To wrap up:

Start learning as early as possible to build a solid foundation before arriving in France and (continue when you are here). Speaking even basic conversational French and showing your interest to learn will not only help in social situations like lunches and informal meetings, but it will also significantly enhance your ability to integrate into broader French culture.

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Photo: Pexels: EVG Kowalievska

Brid Doherty-Appriou

Brid is a native English speaker, fluent in French, a graduate in both International Business Communication and in Instructional Design. She is also accredited (TEFL) to teach English as a foreign language. Her professional experience spans over 20 years in an international environment, working in CAC 40 communication groups and as a consultant in Executive Search.

Recommendations

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