Intercultural competence Netherlands: So close and yet so far away
As a neighbor and one of the ten richest countries in the world, it stands to reason that cooperation with the Netherlands is very lucrative. However, it can fail if it is assumed that the same work mentality exists as in Germany. This may not be so noticeable on a city trip to Amsterdam, but sitting across the conference table from your Dutch colleagues is a different story. You play the same game, but with different rules.
Shall we be on first-name terms?
Absolutely! Communication in the office is unconventional and it is not unusual to be asked about your private life. This should not be seen as inappropriate curiosity, but as friendly interest. At the same time, it should not be assumed that being on first-name terms and being asked about your family means that you are close friends and that you also do things outside of work. The Dutch “Du” – i.e. “jij” – is more comparable to the English “you”, which is also not a sign of deep friendship. Nevertheless, it is important to maintain a very polite and friendly tone in the office – regardless of the hierarchical level.
Tough discussions? – No thanks!
The Netherlands does not like confrontational discussions – especially not about politics and religion. For historical reasons, there is a low power distance in the Netherlands and authoritarian behavior is not appreciated. On the contrary – everyone is listened to, even if it is the trainee who questions the concept at the team meeting. In German eyes, this can be perceived as a waste of time, but it reflects the Dutch culture of consensus. Meetings with a great willingness to compromise, so-called “overlegs”, can therefore take a very long time.
Small – but powerful
It is part of the Dutch mentality to want to assert themselves. The Dutch were not only able to conquer the water and thus win Flevoland for themselves, but also proved themselves very early on as a trading and economic power. Significant colonies were under Dutch rule – including New Amsterdam, today’s well-known New York. This is why they do not like to see themselves as a “small neighbor”, as they were often ahead of their time both politically and technologically. At the same time, modesty is very important in the Netherlands, and it is not appropriate to boast about its success and wealth.
All in all, it should be noted that there is a new, good friendship between the Netherlands and Germany. Why new? If you consider that the Dutch still described the Germans as arrogant and belligerent in the 1993 Clingendael Reports, the relationship has changed dramatically for the better since then. However, one topic is and remains difficult, no matter how much intercultural competence there is on both sides: soccer. Jibes are the order of the day, but should be taken with a sense of humor, as this is also appreciated by the Dutch. Nevertheless, as with any friendship, it is important to cultivate it. Successful cooperation can only be guaranteed through mutual understanding and knowledge of each other’s culture.
Find out more at:
Intercultural training Netherlands
Intercultural training Germany
General intercultural training
