General

The Dutch are egalitarian and highly tolerant of individual differences. Their children are raised without gender biases and there is practically no abject poverty in the country because of the social programs, which, however, also increase the tax burden on workers. This egalitarian outlook is carried over into the workplace. Even in hierarchical organisations, every person has a right to their opinion and to have it heard. The boss may be the final decision maker, but he/she will typically want input from the workers and will strive for consensus because everyone is valued and shown respect.

The Dutch see the family as the foundation of the social structure. However, families tend to be small, often with only one or two children. Relatively few women work outside the house full-time as compared to many other cultures. This allows mothers to be more available to their children throughout the entire day.

Appearances are important to the Dutch. They are disciplined, conservative and pay attention to the smallest details. They tend to see themselves as thrifty, hardworking, practical and well organised. They place high value on cleanliness and neatness. They dislike displays of wealth, as they run counter to their egalitarian beliefs. They do not boast about their accomplishments or their material possessions.

The Dutch are reserved and formal when dealing with outsiders. They are private people and do not put their possessions or emotions on display. Self-control is seen to be a virtue. They do not ask personal questions and will refuse to answer should you be foolish enough to intrude on their privacy. Personal life is kept separate from business. If a friendship develops at work and is carried into the personal arena, this camaraderie will not be brought into the office. Personal matters are not discussed with friends, no matter how close.

Meeting & Greeting

The handshake is the common form of greeting.
It is firm and swift, accompanied by a smile, and repetition of your name.
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.

Gift Giving Etiquette

If invited to a Dutch home bring a box of good quality chocolates, a potted plant, a book, or flowers to the hostess.
Flowers should be given in odd numbers, but not 13, which is unlucky.
Avoid giving white lilies or chrysanthemums, as these are associated with funerals.
Gifts should be wrapped nicely.
Wine is not a good gift if invited for dinner, as the host may already have selected the wines for dinner.
Do not give pointed items such as knives or scissors as they are considered unlucky.
Gifts are usually opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

Dining is fairly formal in the Netherlands.
Table manners are Continental – the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
Men generally remain standing until all the women have taken their seats.
If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork in the middle of the plate with the fork over the knife.
Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
Most food is eaten with utensils, including sandwiches.
The host gives the first toast. An honoured guest should return the toast later in the meal.
Salad is not cut; fold the lettuce on your fork.
Always start with small amounts so you may accept second helpings.
Finish everything on your plate. It is offensive to waste food in the Netherlands.
Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate.