This summer, I have had the privilege of interning at Fondation Scelles, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combatting sexual exploitation. Over the past several weeks, I have been conducting a comparative analysis of the policies surrounding the criminalization of sex buyers within countries that utilize the Equality Model. This experience has given me the opportunity to work in a professional environment abroad while immersing myself in French workplace culture. Through this role, I have gained valuable insight in how organizations operate and the way in which success is measured. While there are certain qualities that are universally valued in effective employees, I have come to appreciate how culture influences the way these qualities are perceived and evaluated.
Success is not defined solely by productivity or fast, achievable results. Rather than prioritizing efficiency and a constant work ethic, the French professional culture places an emphasis on the thought and quality of the work being done. In the nonprofit sector, success is tied to advancing the organization’s mission by contributing to long-lasting and meaningful change, so the tasks we complete are going to take time and precision. Because the issues at hand are complex and sensitive, the work requires patience and emotional resilience. My role also demands empathy and compassion for those affected by sexual exploitation, meaning there is a strong emphasis on approaching projects in an ethical manner and addressing sensitive issues with care.
Although these qualities are highly valued in the United States, I have noticed that there is a greater appreciation for those who are able to collaborate and work collectively to find solutions. The workplace culture in America typically rewards individual initiative and promotes personal accomplishments, whereas a French environment highlights the importance of shared responsibility in teamwork. Employees are often expected to demonstrate competency and understanding rather than promoting their own individual contributions.
In my previous post, I discussed the differences between low and high-context communication styles and how they influence the thought process of day to day interactions. The high-context style is very important in France, as it shapes the definition of success in a unique way. Unlike the direct approach we are used to in America, the French workplace relies on careful interpretation and the ability to read between the lines in a given context. Employees are taught to engage in meaningful discussion and respond thoughtfully while attentively listening to the conversation. Additionally, we are expected to approach each interaction with professionalism and discretion given the sensitivity of the work that we do, which is why we must be committed to addressing the complex issues at hand with care. This difference in contextual thinking is by far the most significant distinction between workplace cultures in the United States and France. The emphasis on careful analysis over fast results is crucial in understanding what determines a successful employee in French workplace culture.
Because nonprofit work often intersects with multiple issues regarding political, legal, psychological, and educational dimensions, employees must also be able to consider every angle of a given problem in order to find the best solution. All perspectives should be evaluated and we must take the time to discuss ideas in depth rather than rush to produce immediate results. The projects we work on at this organization require time and effort, and results are not expected to happen overnight. Employees are expected to work across different areas of expertise in order to address all issues, and find solutions that will lead to significant change.
Through my experience at Fondation Scelles, I have truly understood that producing effective change is a gradual process that will take time. Success is not only measured by accomplishments, but also how the work is being carried out. The issues surrounding sexual exploitation are deeply rooted in the political systems at large, and we cannot expect to see immediate change. I have learned that even the smallest tasks require patience and precision so that in the long run effective change is possible. By approaching challenges thoughtfully and ensuring that we take the time to carry out the work that we do in an ethical and caring manner, we can create meaningful impact. Sustainable change is only accomplished through consistency and deliberate decisions, which is why the road to success is just as important, if not more, than the end goal.
