Dutch Business Culture and Etiquette

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a small country with a a population of around 17 million people. They started out as worldwide maritime traders in the 16th century, and today they are still significant players in the global economy.As an open economy, the Netherlands is susceptible to international developments and is based on consensus. It has a long tradition of negotiation, which lives on in the close and regular contacts between trade unions, employers’ organisations and the government.

Dutch people are hard workers and they take pride in doing a good job for their employers while also supporting their colleagues. They have a more formal attitude to work and when viewed by outsiders,this can come across asa need to follow the rules strictly, but the Dutch just want to do the things the proper way. This is closely related to the valuation of honesty, respect and personal responsibility. Punctuality is taken seriously, so being late for a meeting could be perceived as not considering the business at hand as serious.

Dutch people communicate in a direct manner. In a business meeting they may ask very open questions, but their approach is designed to get the job done and to avoid ambiguity, it is not a reflection on you or your approach, in other words it is just business.
Openness and transparency are highly prized, so make a point of emphasising your frankness and honesty. The Dutch are extremely adept at dealing with foreigners and they tend to get right down to business. Business negotiations proceed at a rapid pace, but Dutch people can also be stubborn or tough on negotiations.
They are conservative, yet innovative. Strategy is cautious and pragmatic, usually involving step-by-step plans. Preparations are made to improvise the plan, if needed. The strategy is clear and communicated to all levels.In many companies the decision-making process is slow and ponderous, involving wide consultation.Consensus is vital so they will keep talking until all parties agree.Once decisions are made, implementation is fast and efficient.
In the Netherlands, commitments are taken seriously and are honored. Do not promise anything or make an offer you are not planning to deliver on.
Overall it is good to be aware that the Dutch are a private people, they prefer to keep their work and personal life separate. You are unlikely to find much in the way of the lively office banter that is more common outside of the Netherlands, and while of course there are social activities like team-building events, or Friday afternoon drinks, it is unusual to socialise with colleagues outside of the office.

Sonja vos Ralevska

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