Working in France: What You Really Need to Know (in Simple French)
Because finding a job is easier when you understand the culture.
You’ve learned some French.
You can introduce yourself.
You can order a coffee.
Now you want to work in France.
But when it comes to jobs, interviews, and colleagues, things feel more serious.
New words. New rules. New culture.
Don’t worry.
Let’s make French for work simple and human.
Why Working in France Feels Different
In France, work is not just about skills.
It’s also about communication, culture, and attitude.
You’ll notice:
- People use polite language
- Emails are formal
- Meetings are structured
- Small talk matters
Understanding these things helps you fit in.
Step 1: Useful French for the Workplace
You don’t need perfect French.
You need useful phrases.
Here are some you’ll hear every day:
At Work
- Bonjour, ça va ? – Hello, how are you?
- Vous pouvez m’aider ? – Can you help me?
- J’ai une question. – I have a question.
- Je vais m’en occuper. – I’ll take care of it.
- D’accord. – Okay
With Colleagues
- Bon courage ! – Good luck
- À tout à l’heure. – See you later
- Merci pour votre aide. – Thanks for your help
Simple French = Professional French.
Step 2: Talking About Your Job
People will often ask:
- Tu fais quoi dans la vie ? – What do you do?
- Tu travailles où ? – Where do you work?
You can answer simply:
- Je travaille dans l’informatique.
- Je suis étudiant(e).
- Je cherche du travail.
- Je suis vendeur / vendeuse.
No long sentences needed.
Just clear communication.
Step 3: French for Job Interviews
Interviews can be stressful — even in your own language.
Here are common questions in French:
- Parlez-moi de vous. – Tell me about yourself
- Quelles sont vos compétences ? – What are your skills?
- Pourquoi voulez-vous ce poste ? – Why do you want this job?
Simple answers are okay:
Je suis motivé(e).
J’aime travailler en équipe.
Je veux apprendre et progresser.
Confidence matters more than grammar.
Step 4: French Work Culture (The Basics)
In France:
- Being polite is very important
- Saying Bonjour is essential
- Emails start with Bonjour or Madame / Monsieur
- People value work-life balance
Lunch breaks are serious.
Weekends are respected.
Work is important — but so is life.
Step 5: Mistakes Are Normal
You will:
- Mispronounce words
- Forget vocabulary
- Use the wrong tense
And that’s okay.
Your colleagues will usually:
- Correct you kindly
- Help you
- Appreciate your effort
Every mistake is a lesson.
Step 6: Learn French Through Your Job
Your workplace is your classroom.
You can:
- Listen to how people speak
- Copy useful expressions
- Ask simple questions
- Practice every day
Real work = Real French.
Bonus: Common French Work Expressions
- C’est bon. – It’s okay
- Pas de problème. – No problem
- On en parle plus tard. – We’ll talk about it later
- Je suis d’accord. – I agree
- Ça marche. – That works
These expressions make you sound natural and professional.
Real Talk: French + Work = Power
When you work in French, you:
- Gain confidence
- Improve fast
- Build your future
- Connect with people
You don’t just learn a language.
You build a new life.
At French Cercle, we help you speak French for real life.
For work. For people. For your future. 🇫🇷💙
