For the next couple of months our Bridgeworks office will be run from the hinterland of the French Riviera.

You ask, "Why (French Riviera)?". I say, "Why not?!"

That's the first lesson we have learnt from the French. Some of you say "Wouldn't it be great to have a 2-3 hour lunch?". The French say "Pourquoi pas?" (Why not?). They may not be the most productive nation in the world, but they know and have a great work-life balance. 

Mealtimes are sacred to the French - the longer you take to eat, the more courses, the better. That means more time to socialise, debate, discuss & spend quality time with each other.

I know for a FACT that some of you eat lunch at your computer - "Ce n'est pas bon!" (That is not good!). 2-3 months here in the French Riviera may sort that out. 

Let me know and I'll see what I can do!

LESSON #2: The French do everything in style.

The French dress up at the best of times. I went to the local equivalent to Bunnings called "Briconaute" and in the plumbing section, there was a woman wearing stillettos as part of her 'Hardware' uniform.

oh la la!

Now, I don't suggest for one minute that you start wearing stillettos (especially the blokes!) but the French have style - especially when it comes to creating a captivating environment. They love a positive ambience, they love to entertain, they love to engage you.

Do you create an environment that people enjoy being a part of? One that gets the best out of others?