Shake hands with everyone individually including children. Very close friends may greet each other by air kissing near the cheek three times, starting with the left cheek. Most Dutch only use first names with family and close friends. Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis.
Freedom, equality and solidarity are very important in the 'Grondwet'. The Netherlands has also signed up to international human rights treaties (such as the European treaty for Human rights) which also encompass these values. In the Netherlands, you are responsible for making a living.
Dutch people are quite direct in their contact with others and use ample eye contact. In fact, they are direct to the point of seeming rude or unsociable, although it is rarely intended that way. The Dutch are okay with verbal conflict and they don't fear that confrontation may damage a relationship.
Do not ask a Dutch person how much they earn. Try not to make pretentious or boastful comments that give the impression that you see yourself as superior to others. Your Dutch counterpart is unlikely to appreciate this.
The Netherlands is a democracy, and the society is based on the principles of the rule of law. This means that everyone has the same rights and that everyone must keep to the same rules. In the Netherlands, freedom, equality and solidarity play a central role.
Dutch people do not like to make detailed agreements or long-term plans. They prefer to simply start working together and let things develop. This requires much closer coordination and the willingness to adjust course if necessary.
There are currently two main religions prominent in Dutch society: Roman Catholic and Protestant. The Roman Catholics make up approximately 25% of the Dutch population, and Protestants make up approximately 15%. Minor Religions. Muslims make up 5% of the population.
Dutch people are usually very open, friendly and welcoming. In the Netherlands, only parents and children live together. In general, they do not live with grandparents, aunts, and uncles. During meals, Dutch families usually share their adventures of the day.
First be open, accept that this is the way Dutch people are. It's important to communicate. If you feel that the directness is something you have to get used to, ask questions. Don't be afraid, because in general the Dutch are open to talk about the differences between cultures.
The Dutch tend to be patriotic and proud of their country. Many will happily talk of the Netherlands, whether it be on a global scale about the country's strong tradition of involvement in international affairs, or on a local scale through regional cuisine.
Typically, people refer to each other by their calling name (roepnaam) or first given name. People never refer to others by their other given names. In an office setting, as well as when addressing customers, it is common to address each other by one's calling name.
respect → respect, achting, eerbied, aanzien. respect → respecteren.
The Dutch communication style is open and straightforward. Dutch people value honesty, so they're known to be frank and speak their minds. Some expats may interpret this directness as being rude. However, to the Dutch, being direct allows them to communicate more clearly and efficiently.
The common greeting in the Netherlands is a handshake along with a nod of the head. This form of address is usually short. Among friends and family, it is common to greet one another by kissing on alternating cheeks three times.
The Netherlands views gender equality as a prerequisite to all other development goals. The Netherlands is a global champion for gender equality, particularly in SRHR .
The Dutch people like to give and receive compliments on looks. This can be done in a more flirty setting, but it's also very common between colleagues, friends, and family members.
Using your hands and fingers to eat rice, vegetables, potatoes or meat without bones isn't on! The Dutch use forks, knives and spoons. If you are not sure about what utensil to use, just ask people and they will be happy to explain. If you are not managing well, just ask politely if you can do it your way.
While there may at times be some amount of antipathy towards outsiders, most Dutch people are actually extremely humble, welcoming, and friendly towards outsiders.
The Dutch directness is very welcome
Part of the Dutch lifestyle means saying what you mean, and then doing what you say. However, don't misunderstand this with not being polite. The Dutch people are extremely accommodating, straightforward and honest.
The Dutch see the family as the foundation of the social structure. Families tend to be small, often with only one or two children. The Dutch are disciplined, con- servative, and private. They do not draw attention to themselves and do not val- ue the accoutrements of success highly prized by other western societies.