Businesswoman
Gender does not play a major role in French organisations and businesswomen including foreign women on business in France are as well respected as their male counterparts. . However, it should be noted that women are more readily accepted in management positions in the major cities than in the provinces, where some gender inequality can still be found. Females should be aware that flirting is generally considered normal and acceptable behaviour in France, and is seen as harmless entertainment to lighten the day at work and socially. Harmless flirting however, should not be confused with sexual harassment, which is completely unacceptable; for example, paying appreciative comments on a colleague’s dress or perfume choice could be considered sexual harassment in some countries, but in France it is considered a genuine compliment and as such is appreciated. However, as with many other cultural norms, trying to emulate your French co-workers in flirting should only be done if you can do it elegantly, since crossing the line into vulgarity and roughness can get you into trouble.