The Netflix series Emily in Paris is a global sensation. While Netflix does not release viewership data, the show ranked in the top-10 list in 94 countries when it first launched, and it’s likely you have seen it, too. 

But in case you haven’t streamed it yet, including the latest season which was released in late December 2022, here’s a quick synopsis: Emily in Paris is an American comedy-drama television series created by Darren Star. Set and filmed in Paris, the series stars Lily Collins as the eponymous Emily Cooper, an American who moves to France to provide an American point of view to French marketing firm Savoir. There, she struggles to succeed in the workplace, all while also searching for love and experiencing a culture clash with her "boring" and mundane Midwestern upbringing.

Despite receiving criticism for frequent cultural mishaps and lack of true representation of what life in Paris is really like, the television series is an interesting look at how cultural differences between France and the United States affect not only the workplace but also social experiences. More importantly, the show teaches valuable lessons that U.S-based association executives should keep in mind when working internationally, be it France or another market around the world. 

Here are some tips from Emily—in her own words—for association executives to consider as they begin or continue their international work:

“Of course. I grew up watching American TV.” Emily arrives in Paris with little preparation and research about what to expect in a country she is not familiar with. She is naïve, thinking she can fit right in as an American. (Who hasn’t seen an American movie, right?) But she immediately faces culture shock and one misunderstanding after another. As an association pro, be sure to do your research about the destination you’re traveling to or where your members are based in advance to familiarize yourself with the basics to help you get started in a new market.

“I did Rosetta Stone on the plane, but it hasn’t kicked in yet.” While English is a common language around the world, not everyone speaks it fluently, and many people prefer to use their native language to communicate. Language can be a significant barrier for some associations, depending on the market of focus. To reduce that barrier, consider learning a few simple phrases in advance of your travel to show commitment to your international members. But go beyond that and also determine whether you need a translator.

Traveling is important for learning about the markets where you work and about the members who call those markets home.

"You’re in Paris now. I’m sure we can find you something better than peanut butter." While working internationally can be daunting and brings about many uncertainties and unknowns, it can be fun, too. Traveling is important for learning about the markets where you work and about the members who call those markets home. Embrace new cultures and experiences by trying new foods and cuisines. 

"I like Paris, but I’m not really sure Paris likes me." Like most things in life, not everything will go according to plan. International work is not easy, and it will take time for you to see return on investment or engagement. You will experience easy days, and some that will be quite challenging. Don’t quickly give up. Keep going by showing your long-term commitment to your constituents. After all, trust takes time. 

“You live to work. We work to live.” Each international market will have its own nuances and a different approach to work-life balance. Consider working days, work ethic, appointment times, and potential delays. Depending on where you are, expect to have informal dinners to build trust and multiple teas before any business is even discussed. Not every market mimics the “go, go, go” mentality of the United States. Prepare to invest significant amount of time into building relationships. 

While Emily makes many missteps as she is learning about the Parisian way of life and work, she never stops learning and working to overcome a few bad impressions. This is most obvious with how Emily is able to overcome mistakes and gain trust with her French boss and mentor because she is able to demonstrate that she is skilled and can provide value to the firm.