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Tips for Working with the Dutch

Through the Lens of Hofstede's 6 Cultural Dimensions

About This Course

Working with the Dutch can be confusing. They think they're being clear and helpful, but to many international colleagues, they can come across as blunt, overly casual, or even rude.In this series of 9 short videos, Wanne Wiersinga walks you through Dutch work culture using Hofstede's 6 Dimensions model. For each dimension, you'll get practical tips depending on whether you score higher or lower...

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What you'll learn

  • Understand Dutch work culture through all 6 Hofstede dimensions
  • Navigate Dutch directness and flat hierarchies (Power Distance 38)
  • Work effectively with Dutch individualism and personal autonomy expectations
  • Adapt to Dutch modesty culture and work-life balance values
  • Recognize how all 6 dimensions combine to create Dutch workplace norms

Course Curriculum

3 Topics
9 Lessons
31 mins total length

Get oriented to Dutch culture and explore the first two Hofstede dimensions: Power Distance and Individualism.

  • Introduction — Getting Ready to Work with the Dutch

    2 mins : 30 sec watch Preview

    Why your experience of Dutch work culture depends on where you sit on cultural dimensions.

  • Power Distance — Why Your Dutch Boss Wants You to Disagree

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    The Netherlands scores 38 on Power Distance. Learn why Dutch managers expect challenge, not deference.

  • Individualism — Why the Dutch Expect You to Speak for Yourself

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    At 80, the Dutch are strongly individualist. Understand expectations for personal opinions and responsibility.

Explore Masculinity, Uncertainty Avoidance, and Long-Term Orientation in Dutch work culture.

  • Masculinity vs Femininity — Why the Dutch Don't Brag (and Don't Want You To)

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    At 14, the Netherlands is one of the most "feminine" cultures in the world. What this means for work.

  • Uncertainty Avoidance — Why the Dutch Plan But Stay Flexible

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    A moderate 53 score creates a unique Dutch balance: structured but pragmatic, planned but adaptable.

  • Long-Term Orientation — Why the Dutch Think Pragmatically

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    At 67, Dutch pragmatism means sustainable strategies win over quick wins — but they'll pivot when needed.

The final dimension, how all six work together, and your action plan for working with the Dutch.

  • Indulgence — Why the Dutch Value Enjoyment and Personal Freedom

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    At 68, Dutch work culture genuinely prioritizes wellbeing alongside performance.

  • The Dutch Combination — How the 6 Dimensions Work Together

    3 mins : 30 sec watch

    How low Power Distance, high Individualism, very low Masculinity, and moderate UA create a distinctive culture.

  • Recap & Next Steps — Making It Work with the Dutch

    4 mins watch

    Summary of all six dimensions with key tips, and how to use the dashboard tools for ongoing support.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Each dimension is explained clearly in the relevant video. No prior knowledge of cultural frameworks is needed.

Not at all. It's valuable for anyone collaborating with Dutch colleagues or clients, whether remotely or in person.

Complete the Cultural Survey in your dashboard. It will show your personal scores so you can see exactly where you and the Dutch differ.

Absolutely. Understanding how your cultural profile is perceived by international colleagues is one of the most valuable things you can learn.

Course Includes:

  • 3 Topics
  • 9 Lessons
  • 9 Videos of 31 mins

Tags

Intercultural Communication Cultural Dimensions