Firmware 8.1.2 released

[Antoine]

Thank you Confused. And regarding "well, for a Dutchman at least.... " that made me chuckle to be honest.


Lot's of stereotypes here (on business culture) but some are true nonetheless:

http://www.intercultural.nl/Publications...254601c55f

Communication style
The Dutch directness in the communication with foreigners regularly causes misunderstandings. Unable to make things understood through context and unable to read context, the Dutch express themselves verbally.
They speak on a friendly tone in rather short clear sober sentences lacking any form of politeness or courtesy. The Dutch are distrustful of very polite conversations, afraid that an unpleasant message may be hidden which they are unable to detect. Transparency in communication is key. Being very nice may awaken the suspicion that one is in need of a special favor. Politeness may also cause irritation as it is considered and a waste of time.

• Communication should be linear and very direct.
  
• Emotion and non-verbal communication is minimal compared to many countries.
  
• Ask people what they think instead of waiting for a non-verbal sign.
  
• The Dutch are distrustful of many compliments and very polite conversation
  

Egalitarian society, status and authority
Holland has an egalitarian society. Status and respect are obtained through study and hard work and not through family ties or old age. Every person is equal and should be treated accordingly which may be difficult to understand for many foreigners.
As a Brazilian General Manager expatriate in the Netherlands remarked “I am happy that my Dutch personnel did not throw me out of my office the first months I worked in Amsterdam. As top manager in Rio, I barely spoke to my lower personnel. I was used to giving orders and being served. In Amsterdam I learned to exchange some words daily with the cleaning lady, to discuss all the work with my managers and to very kindly ask my secretary what phone calls came in for me. I am now used to making my own photocopies and get my own coffee at the coffee machine.

• As Holland is an egalitarian society, the Dutch have big problems accepting hierarchy.
  
• Cross level communication or collaboration is normal.
  
• Only some companies use academic titles on their business cards.
  
• Throughout all layers of society and business, people call each other by the first name.