French immersion program






          

Course objective and outline

The French immersion program aims to provide Australian business professionals and executives a complete immersion into French business practices, culture, language and business etiquette over a number of weeks.

The program is typically run over 6 weeks with 4 contact hours per week for groups up to 16 people.

The program is tailored to the needs of each group and company. It can include a introduction to French or French for advanced speakers.
As a guide, over 24 contact hours, the program includes 14 hours of French language and 10 hours of cross-cultural presentation of French business practices.

The objective of this immersion course is to develop:

  • An ability to introduce and hold simple conversation in French for beginner or regain confidence and pratice French for advanced business professionals
    Cross cultural competencies
  • An understanding of French business practices
  • Hints and tips to apply to everyday dealings with French counterparts

    The starting point is about cross cultural competency and the cross cultural model of Geert Hofstede. Understanding the four dimensions which Hoftede studied across 90 countries and how France and Australia score compared to each other.

    In addition to the study of the model, the French business practices will be detailed with topics such as business organization, communication style, meetings, conflict management and business etiquette.

    Case studies and guest speakers are included in this course.

    Each participant will:

    1. Increase their awareness about cross cultural differences and barriers,
    2. receive practical information about cross cultural competency, work culture and their links to business practices,
    3. participate in a focussed learning environment where individuals are encouraged to discuss their issues when dealing with French counterparts,
    4. translate learnings into practical, workable improvements for everyday dealings.