Being new to the Netherlands like any country comes with its standard obstacles and difficulties. Arriving in a new country often brings with it challenges which can leave you pondering many things you had previously taken for granted. "Am I really as outgoing as I thought?" as you stand quietly in the corner of the local bar. "Where can I go to post this letter?" upon realising that not every country has post offices on each corner. The Netherlands is no different in this regard, with many people arriving and initially feeling quite lost. This article looks to give you a quick insight to the Dutch and their culture!

To start with, the Dutch people are often very direct. This is something they see as gewoon normaal (simply normal), but many foreigners can interpret this as being quite rude. For example, an international interrupting the daily routine of a Dutch person may witness a sharp tongue rather than gentle guidance! But don't be put off; once you get used to the way of life in the Netherlands, it can become a very pleasant culture to be a part of.

The Dutch pride themselves in their tolerance and flexibility, and indeed they are open to certain things which other countries forbid (think soft drugs, euthanasia); to many this is a refreshing point of view. What's more, Dutch people tend to try to do what suits them best, rather than simply pleasing others. This may be shocking to many people from more indirect or collectivist cultures, but works surprisingly well in the Netherlands. People in Holland are generally self reliant and happy, and this is seen more clearly in none other than Dutch women, with their sense of liberalism and independence which is arguably unrivalled across the world.

After living in Holland for a while, you may come across the relative lack of hierarchy in Dutch businesses; your co-workers may often ignore authority, and senior execs try to avoid displaying their power, opting instead to accentuate their role as part of the group. Whilst this may lead you to think you can relax in their presence, don't be mistaken, this doesn't mean that they won't use their authority when they have to!

So there are two approaches you can take as an expat or visitor: You could say, "I'll just have to bear with it and hope I get used to it..." or alternatively you might ask, "Why are the Dutch so Dutch and what can I do to understand them a little better?" For the latter, we're not talking about a magic potion or mathematical solution, but rather some clues and helpful information that will help you understand the Dutch people and how their society works.

Workshops to discover Dutch culture

Want to know more about how to fit in whilst in the Netherlands? Expertise in Labour Mobility runs a workshop called "What Makes the Dutch, Dutch?" approximately six times per year dealing with the subject of Dutch society and integration upon arrival. The workshops are given in Rotterdam and last one full working day; costs are €185 per person, including lunch, drinks as well as a take-home information package. The next opportunity to participate is on 2^nd February 2012, visit www.labourmobility.com or send an e-mail to info@labourmobility.com for more information. Check us out on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter!

Archie Pollock, Expertise in Labour Mobility