Dutch Culture — Quick Guide

Things to know to avoid awkwardness and respect local norms during the Droplet visit.

Communication Style

• Direct. Dutch people are famously blunt — they say what they mean. Don't take it personally; it's not rude, it's clarity.
• Honest feedback. They'll tell you exactly what they think of your idea. Welcome this — it's how good work happens here.
• Punctuality is respected. Be on time, ideally 5 mins early. Late = unprofessional.
• No small talk overload. Get to the point. Long pleasantries can feel awkward to them.
• English is universal in business — fluency is excellent. No need to apologize for not speaking Dutch.

Business Etiquette

• Handshake is the standard greeting (firm, brief, eye contact)
• First names are used quickly — even with senior people, after the first introduction
• Equality. Dutch culture is very flat — no obvious hierarchy display. The CEO might bike to work alongside the intern.
• Decision-making is consensus-based. "Polderen" = the Dutch art of consensus. Meetings can feel slow but everyone gets heard.
• Disagreement is healthy. Pushing back politely on an idea is expected and appreciated.
• Lunch is light. Often just bread + cheese + soup at the office. Don't expect a 3-course business lunch.

Social Norms

• Tipping is minimal — service is included. Round up or 5–10% in restaurants if service was great.
• Splitting the bill is normal — even on dates. "Going Dutch" is real.
• Bikes have right of way — in Amsterdam especially. Look both ways AND for bikes when crossing.
• Don't jaywalk. Dutch people wait for the green light even at empty intersections.
• Quiet on public transport — phone calls are frowned upon.
• No shoes in homes. If invited to a Dutch home, ask before keeping shoes on.

Things NOT to Do

• ❌ Don't compare Netherlands to Germany (or worse, call it Holland — Holland is just 2 of the 12 provinces)
• ❌ Don't be late
• ❌ Don't be evasive — answer questions directly
• ❌ Don't expect people to be impressed by status / titles
• ❌ Don't assume someone speaks Dutch — ask first
• ❌ Don't tip excessively (15–20% is American, not European)

Things to Do

• ✅ Try Dutch food — herring, bitterballen, stroopwafel, Gouda
• ✅ Walk + bike (rental bikes everywhere)
• ✅ Visit a market if free (Albert Cuypmarkt in Amsterdam, Markthal in Rotterdam)
• ✅ Drink coffee — Dutch coffee culture is strong
• ✅ Use cash for small purchases under €5 (some places have no minimum, but not all)
• ✅ Carry an umbrella ALWAYS

Key Dutch Words (Just in Case)

"Gezelligheid" — The Dutch Soul

This word has no direct translation. It describes the warm, cozy feeling of being together with people you like, in a comfortable place. Cafés, family dinners, friends gathering — all "gezellig". If you say "Wat gezellig!" sincerely about a Droplet team dinner, you'll earn massive cultural points.