I’ve worked in both India and the Netherlands, and people often ask me what the biggest difference is. My answer is always the same: work-life balance.
In India, my days often started at 9 in the morning and ended at 9 at night. There wasn’t much personal time left after work. In the Netherlands, the work-life balance is amazing. Evenings are for life, not for emails.
Both countries taught me a lot, and I’m grateful for my start in India. In this post I share the main differences I noticed in work culture between India and the Netherlands, and tips if you’re about to make the move.
This is based on my own experience in the companies I worked for. Every company and team is different, in both countries.
1. Work-life balance
This is the big one. In India, long days were normal for me, and staying late often felt like part of the job. In the Netherlands, most people start and finish on time, and leaving at the end of the day is completely normal, not a sign that you don’t care.
Many people here also work part-time, and spending time with family, sports or hobbies after work is seen as important. For me, it means I still have energy for my life after work: dancing, travel and my side projects.
2. Direct communication
Dutch people are known for being direct. If they disagree, they’ll tell you, politely but clearly. In the beginning, this can feel a bit blunt if you’re used to more indirect communication.
Over time I learned that it’s not personal. It’s actually very efficient: you always know where you stand. And you’re expected to share your opinion too, even with your manager.
3. Flatter hierarchy
In many Dutch workplaces, the hierarchy feels flat. You call your manager by their first name, you can question decisions, and junior people are encouraged to speak up in meetings.
If you come from a more hierarchical work culture, it can take a little time to get used to the idea that your opinion is welcome, even in a room with senior people.
4. Meetings and planning
Meetings here usually start on time and have a clear agenda. Calendars are planned weeks ahead, including holidays. People take their vacation seriously, and long summer holidays are normal.
5. Consensus
Decisions often involve a lot of discussion, so everyone feels heard before something is decided. It can take a bit longer, but once a decision is made, people usually stand behind it.
6. Lunch and the office vibe
Lunch is often simple and quick, often a sandwich with colleagues. The office vibe is relaxed, and dress codes are usually smart casual. I wrote more about that in what I wear to the office in the Netherlands.
What I miss about working in India
I don’t want to make it sound like one country is simply better. I learned so much in India: hard work, hustle, adaptability and how to get things done with energy. The energy, the warmth and the strong sense of team are things I still value a lot.
Tips if you’re moving from India to a Dutch workplace
Speak up in meetings
Your opinion is expected. Prepare one or two points before important meetings so you feel confident sharing them.
Don’t take directness personally
Feedback is usually about the work, not about you. Try being a bit more direct yourself too.
Respect boundaries, including your own
People here protect their personal time. Do the same. Leaving on time is normal.
Plan ahead
Book meetings and holidays early. Calendars fill up fast.
Learn some Dutch
Even if work is in English, a little Dutch helps you connect with colleagues over lunch and coffee.
Frequently asked questions
Is work-life balance better in the Netherlands than in India?
In my experience, yes. Most people work set hours and personal time is respected. It does depend on your company and role, in both countries.
Are Dutch people really that direct at work?
Generally, yes. Communication is usually clear and honest. It’s not meant to be rude, and you get used to it quickly.
Do I need to speak Dutch to work in the Netherlands?
Not always. Many international companies work in English. Learning some Dutch still helps a lot with daily life and connecting with colleagues.
What is the biggest culture shock at work for Indians in the Netherlands?
For many people, it’s the direct communication and the flat hierarchy, and how normal it is to leave work on time.
Have you worked in both India and abroad? What difference surprised you most? Tell me in the comments 👇
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