In French professional culture, the ability to keep confidences and know what not to say is highly respected. Someone who maintains appropriate silence demonstrates good judgment, self-control, and trustworthiness. Conversely, someone who shares too freely—even if nothing technically confidential—may be seen as lacking refinement and poor judgment.
When French colleagues are reserved with information, they are often demonstrating a valued quality, not being obstructive. If you want to be trusted with sensitive information, demonstrate that you can protect what you already know. Show that you understand that some things should remain unsaid. Your discretion signals that you are safe for confidences; indiscretion signals that you are not.
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