Western Europe
Netherlands — cultural profile
Dutch culture combines very high individualism (80), very low power distance (38), and extreme femininity (Hofstede 14). Directness, egalitarianism, and consensus (poldermodel) are cultural defaults that surprise almost every visitor.
Hofstede scores
- Individualism80/100
- Power distance38/100
- Uncertainty avoidance53/100
- Long-term orientation67/100
- Indulgence68/100
- Masculinity14/100
Cultural traits
- Extreme directness — bluntness is respect
- First-name flat culture across seniority
- Consensus is real, not ceremonial
- Modesty over display
Work style
Flat, consensus-driven, punctual. Everyone speaks in the meeting.
Communication style
Extremely direct. What is said is exactly what is meant.
Decision-making
Consensus (poldermodel) — slow to decide, strong once decided.
Typical archetype
The Autonomous Navigator
Self-reliant, direct, allergic to detour.
Read the full archetype →