Dutch Culture Etiquette

       Most traits of Dutch etiquette resemble those of the rest of the Western world, but there are several distinguishing national codes of behavior. The Dutch either shake hands when they meet and depart or, in the case of women and closely acquainted men and women, kiss each other three times on the cheek.
Shake hands with everyone present -- men, women, and children -- at business and social meetings. Shake hands again when leaving. Introduce yourself if no one is present to introduce you. The Dutch consider it rude not to identify yourself.

The Dutch will shake hands and say their last name, not "Hello." They also answer the telephone with their last name.
It is considered impolite to shout a greeting. Wave if greeting someone from a distance.

Body Language

• The Dutch are reserved and don't touch in public or display anger or extreme exuberance.
• The Dutch value privacy and seldom speak to strangers. It is more likely that they will wait for you to make the first move. Don't be afraid to do so. So as future counselor we should try to make our client talk to us by interacting first. 
• The Dutch expect eye contact while speaking with someone. As future counselor we should keep this in our mind. 
• Moving your index finger around your ear means you have a telephone call, not "you're crazy." The crazy sign is to tap the center of your forehead with your index finger. This gesture is very rude

The Dutch have a strong desire to order their time in agendas and on calendars. Dutch children are given their first agenda at primary school to write down scheduled lessons and homework. A full agenda signifies a full life.
The Dutch are very punctual, and showing up even five minutes late is considered inappropriate.Lateness, missed appointments, postponements, changing the time of an appointment or a late delivery deteriorates trust and can ruin relationships. As a counselor if we want to change time or postpone our session we need to be careful of all of this and make sure we take appropriate actions as to not disrespect or lose our clients trust.

The Dutch tend to be direct, giving straight "yes" and "no" answers. So if we want more information we should as counselors make sure to ask Open ended questions.

As a result, everything has to be done at fixed times: There is a time to work, a time to clean the house, a time to drink coffee, and a time to visit friends.

The Dutch do not line up and show almost no consideration in public for a person's status, gender, or age. The use of the formal "you" ( U ) to address a person is becoming less common, whereas the growing importance of the informal "you" ( jij )is meant to illustrate a commitment to equality.

Gifts

• Gifts are generally not given or expected at business meetings.
• Gifts are exchanged in business only once a close, personal relationship has developed.
• The Dutch find any form of ostentation a bit embarrassing. A grand gesture of generosity will only make them uncomfortable. Lavish displays of wealth are considered bad taste.
• Give books, art objects, wine, liquor. Do not give knives.
• When invited to someone's home, bring a small gift for the hostess. Bring children a small gift or candy. Sending flowers before or after the party is also appropriate. 

Helpful Hints

• The Dutch avoid superlatives. Compliments are offered sparingly, and to say that something is "not bad" is to praise it. A person who never offers criticism is seen as either being simple-minded or failing to tell the truth. A foreigner need not worry too much about saying something the will hurt feelings. The Dutch will argue, but seldom take offense.
• Dutch humor is subtle rather than slapstick.
• The Dutch speak directly and use a lot of eye contact. To a foreigner, them may appear abrupt, but it is just their manner of communicating.
• Do not call the Netherlands "Holland." Holland is a region within the Netherlands.
• Smoking is prohibited in many areas. Always ask before lighting up.
• Stand when a woman enters the room.
• Don’t chew gum in public.
• Do not discuss money or prices or ask personal questions.
• Keep your hands out of your pockets while talking to someone or shaking hands.