Getting Started Learning French

French as a Global Language

The French language spans the globe, and it is an important and useful language to know when traveling to places like Europe or South America. By learning French, you will be able to communicate in places as diverse as France, Canada, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, and many others.

Like English, French is a global language and can be a useful business tool. Having knowledge of French can break down communication barriers and give you valuable insight into French business prospects.

Learning the language is the first step in understanding what people need and how to deliver it to them. Since French is spoken all over the word, learning the language is like holding a key to a number of international, business opportunities.

Role of Official Language

Learning to speak French is a great way of getting ahead in the corporate and business worlds. French has the status of an official or administrative language in prestigious organizations all over the world. It is also the official language in 41 countries and is widely used in important business and government offices.

French Business Culture

The French are always anxious to maintain strict protocol in business relationships and do not believe in mixing personal relationships with business. They are great believers in hierarchy, so be extremely cautious when addressing a person who is an authority figure. The French are just as particular about fashion and being well-dressed. Having the reputation of being the most fashionable people, they appreciate anyone who is elegantly dressed.

So, if you have an important meeting to attend and have already armed yourself with a few French phrases, dress elegantly and use your best manners when you meet your potential colleagues.

Some Basic Phrases

If you are a business person or entrepreneur starting a business venture with a French company, to make a great first impression, you might want to learn a few French phrases, such as:

Good-bye! - Au revoir!
Good day! - Bonjour!
Have a nice day! - Bonne journée!
Do you speak English? - Parlez-vous anglais?
Excuse me/sorry - Excusez-moi
Fine, thanks and you? – Merci, et vous?
I don't understand - Je ne comprends pas
I don’t know – Je ne sais pas
Please - S'il vous plaît
What? - Comment?
How are you? - Comment allez-vous?
What is your name? - Comment vous appellez-vous?
So-so - Comme ci, comme ça
My name is - Je m'appelle
OK/I agree - d'accord
Very well - Très bien
Thank you - Merci
You're welcome - De rien
Please speak slowly - Parlez lentement

Conclusion

The French language is as popular as its cuisine. Some of the most romantic songs and poems are written in French; it is said to be the most romantic of the European languages. But apart from the romantic aspect of French, it is also one of the most important languages in the business world, so if you want to stay ahead of your competition, then you should learn to speak French.

Article Source: http://www.articlemap.com

Chelsea R Sparks researches and writes on financial and business matters.

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