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Europe and the United States seem so intertwined that one often is not aware of the differences. Europeans and Americans, however, do think and act differently - and take their own way of acting for granted.
European employers and business partners alike are more direct in expressing results and expectations than Americans. The American habit of first complimenting and then suggesting another opinion is not understood. To a Dutchman or Belgian, a suggestion merely gives another option and is not necessarily perceived as binding.
Political correctness as is common in the U.S. is not appreciated in Europe and is be perceived as suspicious for "running around the issue" without clearly addressing it. The Dutch prefer open and clear wordings. In Belgium, diplomacy is the proper approach. In both countries, political correctness leaves too many people wondering.
Equally, unlike in the United States, on any level in business in Europe a constantly agreeing or smiling person is hardly taken seriously. Genuinity of a person is better accepted than feigned friendlyness, especially a fake smile.
The American habit of confirming every appointment several times, even on the very day of the meeting, is perceived as annoying in Europe. In the eyes of your Dutch or Belgian counterpart, he is very well capable of keeping his own agenda and does not need to be insulted by having his organizational skill questioned.
MaasHudson helps you understand the differences, so that you can effectively work with them. MaasHudson offers companies that focus on the Netherlands and Belgium solutions and information to succeed.
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