French communication culture expects active verbal engagement. Expressing views, disagreeing directly, and debating substantively are normal and often valued rather than threatening to relationships.
When working with French colleagues, expect that meetings will include genuine discussion where people express opinions and respond to each other’s arguments. Silence or excessive deference may be read as having nothing to contribute. Prepare to voice your perspective and support it with reasoning.
This does not mean being rude—maintaining respect within disagreement is expected—but it does mean engaging actively rather than remaining passive. French communicators often see debate as productive, a way to develop better ideas through exchange. If you hold back, you may miss opportunities to influence outcomes and may be perceived as disengaged.
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