American and French business correspondence show similarities and differences. Business Communicators in both countries advocate clarity and reader adaptation. Many of the differences result from differences in culture and value. French letters tend to be more formal than American letters. The French are not very concerned with minimizing price and presenting negative news positively. The format of letters is different. Particular ly, the inside address, salutation, and signature block differ from American letters. To communicate successfully, a businessperson writing to a French audience should be familiar with the fundamentals of French business communication practices.