Go France! The French are crazy about apero & networking

  • Career Center
  • Le 10 janvier 2020

We are delighted to bring you “Go France”, the guide for international students looking to work in France!

Devised and compiled by Audencia’s Career Centre and Alumni team, with the support of the School's student reporters, “Go France” is a valuable resource for internationals considering a career in France after their studies. Starting with HR professionals’ top tips and debunking the myths and realities of the workplace, Go France also showcases the experiences of more than 20 international alumni who have aced the challenge of finding a job in France.
 

Come and join the Go France launch event in Paris on 6 February when the conversation will go live!
Register here


In the meantime, discover what Ana Maria Olaya, IMM 15, has to say.

About Ana Maria

  • Graduated from the IMM 15 programme
  • Originally from Colombia
  • Working as Finance Manager at MasterCard in Paris
  • Daily working language ▶ English, French, Spanish
  • Native language (s) ▶ Spanish
  • Level of French ▶ Upper intermediate /Advanced
  • Other languages spoken ▶ Currently learning Hindi
  • Other degrees ▶ BSc Finance & International Affairs , Diploma in Corporate Finance

Ana Maria's key advice 
People are crazy about apero and networking! They really enjoy that time when you discuss and address a topic around a glass of wine. Even sometimes job related.

How it all started
I worked for 3 years in Investment Banking as Finance Analyst before joining Audencia. After my degree I did a 6 month internship in Paris. I then joined Mastercard as Senior Finance Analyst for France abefore being promoted to Finance Manager for Western Europe.

Most memorable experience
I always remember one course which has been a huge help at work: “Managing Across Cultures”. I always apply and think about the dimensions when interacting with people from different cultures.

Myths & realities
Realities: Speaking French is a must if you want to increase your chances to get a good job. Even if there are English speaking jobs, communicating in French will be highly appreciated.

Myths: French people don’t work as much, always leave early, taking coffee breaks or on holidays. This might be partially true. French working style tends to balance personal and professional life but they are highly productive.

My biggest challenge
When I joined Mastercard my level of French was not so good. I put effort and took classes and forced myself to speak even though everyone knew English.

Speaking French
You have to make an effort. I joined classes at Mairie de Paris two days a week after work, and tried practising with my colleagues who always encouraged me. They won’t judge if your grammar is not perfect.

Advice and top tips
Make as many friends as you can, open yourself to new experiences. Create a good support system.

 
CAN YOU HELP?
Are you an international alum in France or, are you a French alum working abroad?
Do you have a story to tell about your journey and how you secured your job or internship?
Do you have advice that you would like to share with current students?

If you have answered YES to all of the above, then please follow this link!

Thank you
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