The Dutch are pragmatic, open-minded, tolerant but (in the eyes of a visitor) outspoken, egalitarian, organised, efficient and practical. Loyalty is highly valued when doing business in the Netherlands. If you can exhibit these qualities, you will make a connection with your Dutch counterparts. You should also be prepared to engage in long debates and back up everything you say.
The Dutch are, despite their outspokenness, fairly shy and reserved and do not appreciate loud behaviour, close physical contact, constant touching during a conversation or exaggeration. Hard facts and a solid background will impress more than grandiose claims and plans. The same goes with your general demeanour. The Dutch can identify with frugality and are uncomfortable with lavish spending and ostentatious displays of wealth.
Once you have reached an agreement on a point, it is essential to keep your word and stick to the agreed deadline.
Dutch people have great respect for privacy. If you are new to doing business in the Netherlands, it’s up to you to introduce yourself to people, and they will in turn introduce you to others. But you should set the social agenda, as the newcomer, or you will be left alone.
Finally, never waste a Dutch person’s time. Punctuality is essential at all times.
Top 10 tips on doing business in the Netherlands
Here are 10 essential tips for making a good impression when doing business in the Netherlands:
1. Keep it low-key. A self-effacing approach is better than someone who boasts about personal achievements.
2. Be efficient. Although good relationships should be built, the Dutch do not like to waste time and prefer to get straight down to business.
3. Be on time. Punctuality is essential, for social events as well as business.
4. Prepare for a frank approach. The Dutch can be very direct and may say things that visitors regard as shocking. This is not intentional; it is simply their straightforward communication style.
5. Respect the bottom line. The Dutch are profit-orientated and careful with money.
6. Be pragmatic. Plans need to be practical and realistic rather than wild and over-ambitious.
7. Keep to your word. Commitments are taken seriously so do not promise what you can’t deliver.
8. Respect private time. The Dutch make a clear distinction between personal and business life so respect a contact’s right to weekends and evenings.
9. Be a good listener. A good communicator knows how to listen to others’ opinions, which is expected.
10. Get the name right. Do not call the Netherlands ‘Holland’ – Holland is a region of the country.
Learn more about the Dutch with our quick video guide:
Hans van der Linden is the COO at Country Navigator where he specializes in delivering B2B solutions that help corporations navigate cultural differences and build inclusive workspaces in today's globalized environment. With extensive experience in fostering cultural intelligence and awareness, Hans has seen the critical importance of these skills in driving business success. Under his leadership, the company offers innovative training programs that enhance cross-cultural communication, improve collaboration, and support companies in expanding into new markets.
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