The French value genuine engagement and are suspicious of its performance. They can tell the difference between someone who truly cares about their work and someone going through the motions with manufactured enthusiasm. Displays of motivation that seem designed to impress rather than accomplish — performative energy, forced optimism, motivational theater — are counterproductive. They trigger skepticism rather than inspiration.
If you want to engage French colleagues, be substantive rather than performative. Demonstrate genuine understanding and commitment rather than displaying energy. The French commit deeply to work they believe in and withdraw from work they perceive as meaningless, regardless of the rewards attached. Authenticity of engagement is what they respect in others and demand of themselves.
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