The 8 biggest customer service differences between French and Dutch customers!

1. Informal vs. Formal:
Whereas Dutch customers are fairly quick to say you and you, French customers value a more formal approach. The Dutch tend to be more direct and angular in their communication. The French are a lot less direct and often more formal in their contact.

2. Language proficiency:
Whereas in the Netherlands we speak English fairly easily and do accept it in business communication, it is different for French people. They speak French and expect you to do the same. In France, foreign TV is still dubbed. French people certainly expect customer service to be available in native French.

3.Hierarchy:
In French culture, hierarchy plays an important role. French customers often expect employees to be aware of social status and show respect for their position. Dutch customers, on the other hand, tend to place less emphasis on hierarchy and are more focused on egalitarianism.

4. Keeping appointments:
You wouldn't say it but with regard to customer service etc., French people are punctual. They set high standards and expect appointments to be kept. In daily life, however, this is less so. Here, we Dutch like to keep our promises.

5.Personal contact:
French customers highly value personal contact in customer service. The French like a personal approach where interaction is of a high level. The Dutch are a bit more focused on efficiency.

6. Work ethics:
French people work longer hours and have longer breaks in the afternoon. In the Netherlands, we still work a lot of 9am to 5pm with half an hour breaks. For companies that have French customers, this is something to consider. They may want to contact you during their break and after work. Then, of course, you need to be available at the times your French customer wants to reach you.

7. Negotiations:
Cultural differences can also emerge in negotiations. French clients tend to have a more assertive and non-verbal communication style, while Dutch clients tend to be direct and open in their negotiation approach.

8. Satisfaction and complaints: The Dutch can of course complain. Yet when it comes to complaints, French people are more expressive than the Dutch. If you want to set up French customer service, for example, you have to take this into account. French customers can get angry faster if they have a complaint where the Dutch are a bit more understanding.

So when setting up good French customer service, it is best to take into account some cultural differences. By understanding and respecting the differences between French and Dutch customers, you can build a solid foundation for successful customer relationships. Cultural sensitivity and adaptability are key to building sustainable and profitable international business relationships.