Finnish companies entering French business culture and environement

Abstract

The object of the study was to discuss the similarities and the differences between Finnish and French business culture. Other topic were, understanding and adapting to the culture, and adopting the adequate attitude, which have a more or less direct effect on the business negotiation success. The main theory structure used was the six dimension model from the research professor Greet Hofstede, which are discussing the national culture differences. Other theories such has Edward T.Hall proxemics theories will be used in order to enter more into details. The content will be designed in order to further comprehend theories but also to complete any partial information or to create a more practical set of information toward the end of the study. Sources and data were collected from scientific journals, business articles, academic literature and relevant and reliable internet pages. As for the empirical part an interview was carried out on a Finnish company, Tackla, The study applied the qualitative analysis methods and the data was collected with an open questions interview. The result of the study showed that there is a clear difference between French and Finnish business culture and environment. Especially the way French business network structure is constructed and the impact it has on Finnish SME. Also regarding business negotiation and selling process in French business culture or With French partners. The study provide Finnish seller with theories that can be related to experiences, for further understanding of this situation.