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Cultural differences

Cultural differences are the variations in the way of life, beliefs, traditions and laws between different countries, religions, societies and people.

Important to be aware of differences because it helps to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings

Misunderstandings caused by cultural differences A Canadian conducting business in Kuwait is surprised when his meeting with a high- ranking official is not held in a closed office and is constantly interrupted. He starts wondering if the official is as important as he had been led to believe, and he starts to doubt how seriously his business is being taken

Misunderstandings caused by cultural differences A British boss asked a new, young American employee if he would like to have an early lunch at 11 am each day. The employee said 'Yeah, that would be great!' The boss immediately said "With that kind of attitude, you may as well forget about lunch!" The employee and the boss were both baffled by what went wrong. [In England, saying "yeah" in that context is seen as rude and disrespectful.]

Cultural differences Visual differences Norms and values Key Beliefs

The Netherlands

Funny facts about the Netherlands Every Dutch person owns a bike and there are twice as many bikes as there are cars The Dutch saying “Act normally, that’s crazy enough” fits the Dutch like a glove Saint Nicholas’ Eve on 5 December is the Netherlands’ number one traditional holiday On average, the Dutch eat 14.3 kg of cheese per person per year

Visual aspects of the Dutch culture The official language is Dutch Food does not play a very important role in the life of Dutch people In general, Dutch people are dressed casual

Norms and values of the Dutch 3 kisses on the cheeks when meeting friends and family but handshake with strangers Straightforward communication Punctual Individual

Key believes of the Dutch

Did you have any difficulties with cultural differences?

How to deal with cultural differences? Be aware of the differences Be respectful Don’t see cultural differences as strange behaviour but as different behaviour Try to understand why people behave different

More information about the Dutch culture: