communication
In order to communicate effectively in any country, it’s important to look at some of their cultural dimensions. The Netherlands scores high in individualism, extremely low in masculinity and somewhere in the middle for power distance, uncertainty avoidance, and long term orientation. All of these different dimensions will impact how you communicate in this country. I will describe what each scoring means and discuss some tips to keep in mind when visiting the Netherlands.
individualism
The Netherlands scored an 80 for individualism, as you can see in the diagram at the bottom of the page. Cultures that are highly individualistic, like the Netherlands, tend to care more about themselves and direct family members and have more of the "I" mentality. It ties to the common saying or quote "every man for themselves". Daily actions are not backed by loyalty for fellow cultural members like they are in collectivist societies. The good news is if you are from the U.S., we are also a very individualistic society so it won't be too different or impact your everyday communication.
masculinity
The other dimension the Netherlands scored dramatically in is masculinity, with a extremely low score of 14, meaning they are more of a feminine society. More feminine, or nurturing, cultures care more for others, value a higher quality of life and value a high work-life balance. In communication, people in the Netherlands will tend to be more easy-going, less assertive, and more willing to negotiate. Plan on having long conversations with a lot of back-and-forth with less ultimatums and more willingness to compromise when in the Netherlands. Compared to the U.S., which is a highly masculine culture, you may feel more heard and included in conversations.
power distance
The Netherlands, though somewhere in the middle, scored a pretty low 38 in power distance. This means they don't necessarily accept that power drives the society, and equality is more important. Power in this culture is more decentralized and power hierarchy is only for convenience. They don't put so much emphasis on submitting to those of power and have communication that has participation from all, regardless of their amount of power. If you find yourself in the Netherlands and you are from the U.S., don't worry as there is a very similar (40) power distance here. Power distance probably won't affect a normal vacation but if you perhaps have an internship or get a job there, it very much will affect this. Don't be afraid to stick up for yourself and negotiate a pay raise or a different job title when you feel you deserve it. Also, in group meetings feel free to let your voice be heard; after all, you may have the best idea yet.
uncertainty avoidance
Once again, the Netherlands scored somewhere in the middle for uncertainty avoidance, with a score of 53 they are slightly on the higher side. This means they typically prefer to avoid uncertainty. Typically, this comes in the form of avoiding innovation, not accepting nontraditional ideas, and intrinsically having the need for strict rules. Keep in mind, the Netherlands is somewhere in the middle in this dimension so they probably due allow for some innovation, "thinking outside the box" and breaking the rules as long as they don't feel unnecessary anxiety or feel threatened over these issues. When communicating in a society like this, definitely do bring up new ideas and be innovative but remember that sometimes change is scary to this culture and be respectful of that. Don't expect things to change quickly or without much consideration on the long-term effects.
long-term orientation
Closely related to uncertainty avoidance is long-term orientation; the Netherlands scores slightly higher, although still somewhere in the middle with a score of 67. This means truth typically changes depending on the context and time it is communicated. They tend to be able to adapt to change easily if there is a good reason for it and they think a lot about the long-term financially and may invest or save more. Similarly to uncertainty avoidance, this will affect communication primarily in things that may or may not affect the long-term. Also, communication and "truth" rely heavily on the place and time of the conversation so truth may change from people to people and everyone may have their own opinion about a certain event. Keep this in mind because communication and meaning may change from person to person.
Cover image source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/499969996108520164/?lp=true
Country Comparison. (n.d.). Retrieved February 24, 2020, from https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/the-netherlands,the-usa/
Country Comparison. (n.d.). Retrieved February 24, 2020, from https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/the-netherlands,the-usa/