Although more English is spoken in the business world than on the streets, a few words of French before switching to English will ensure a much better reception than launching into English straight away. Translations of certain key items, such as executive summaries, would be considered a beau geste. Due to the touchy political situation, it is best for visitors to avoid discussing language rights or the sovereignty movement.

Standard international business courtesies should be observed, although businesspeople in Quebec City are less formal than Europeans and usually use first names after the initial introduction. When speaking French in a business context, it is best for one to use 'vous' until the other party uses the less formal 'tu'; after that, lapsing back into 'vous' is considered bad form. Business cards are exchanged either at the beginning or end of the first meeting. Both men and women generally wear suits but short-sleeved shirts are acceptable in summer. Business hours are generally 0900–1700 weekdays. Breakfast and lunch meetings are more common than evening meetings.