Success Story: Maria from Brazil

"I arrived in Lyon with intermediate French and a job offer in tech. My biggest challenge was understanding that French professional culture values process and hierarchy more than my startup background in São Paulo. I spent my first three months frustrated in meetings that seemed too long and decisions that seemed too slow.

The turning point came when a French colleague explained that these discussions built consensus and prevented future problems. I started contributing differently – preparing more thoroughly, respecting the process, while still bringing my innovative perspective.

My advice: Don't try to change French culture or completely abandon your own. Find the balance. Today, five years later, I lead a team that benefits from both approaches."