Amsterdam is an attractive place for foreign expats. Expectations about the tolerant and open-minded Dutch, however, may quickly fade away after their first settlements. Contrary to popular belief, many expats don’t feel that welcome by locals. They have difficulties in accessing the Dutch society, spend the weekend alone and may wonder what on earth went wrong?
In a predominantly Dutch workplace a foreign manager may feel his or her authority being questioned by Dutch employees who tend to counteract the latest instruction. An ambitious foreign newcomer is eagerly working to make the best of his or her new assignment, but may feel left out by the Dutch team members. How come? In Dealing with the Dutch here are 5 ways that support an expat career path in The Netherlands.
1. Act Normal
Dutch people like to see and treat all people as equals. Trying to be special or increasing your status by bragging about achievements, showing off or outperform others is not valued. The Dutch like to level with others. Even in parliament the Dutch Prime Minister got a typical warning:” Act normal, man!” His reply simply was: “Act normal yourself!” The Dutch fussed about disrespectfully calling the Prime Minister ‘man’, but not about the principle of acting normal. It basically means: don’t pretend to be more important than somebody else.
2. Problem? Fix it!
For all I know The Netherlands may be the only country in the world where people actually love problems. Why? Because you can fix them! The Dutch sleep really well when they have solved a problem or two during the day. It gives a feeling of great satisfaction, control and what’s more security. It relates to the idea of avoiding risks and potential dangers, and thus to the notion of controlling our environment. An ability clearly demonstrated by our self-made below-the-sea level country. For any expat, the general advice is to take action when there is an imminent problem, or at least signal it. Whatever you do, don’t walk the other way!
3. Drink Coffee Daily
What’s that thing about coffee in The Netherlands? Well, it is a great way to socialize with neighbours, friend and colleagues. Having a coffee means chipping in the latest talk of the town or in the office. When you go out for coffee, offer to get a cup for your colleagues. Dutch meetings start with coffee because small talk is an informal warming up and gets people connected more quickly.
4. Freely share information
The Dutch have a basic need to know what’s happening when it relates to their life and work environment. People generally don’t want to be left out in discussions or decision making processes which may have an impact on them. Even though many companies nowadays have a cc discouraging policy, as a rule of thumb most expats can better be too generous in sharing information than too restrained. Dutch perceive not sharing information as secretive and possibly dishonest behavior.
5. Get a life after hours
Latin, African or Asian cultures may expect their colleagues to invite them for a drink after hours or other social events, but the Dutch generally reserve their private time to themselves and their hobbies. The best way to connect with the Dutch is to join a social club or event, whether it is sports, arts or community-based.
A happy expat understands the local mindset and is able to navigate the local business culture. These ways will support daily interactions with The Dutch and there are more practical tips & tricks. Need more insights in the Dutch and feedback about your personal approach? Sign up for our next workshop Dealing with The Dutch on October 10 2013!
