Meeting and Greeting Etiquette

In the Netherlands, it's customary to extend a greeting while entering particular settings. For instance, it's common to say "hallo" (hello) or "goededag" to people when you enter a waiting room at a doctor's office (good day). You can bid folks "fijne dag" (have a good day) or "dag" as you depart (goodbye).

It's customary to shake hands with everyone in attendance as you enter and leave a business meeting or other formal event. The Dutch customarily kiss each other three times on alternate cheeks while greeting each other in private with friends or family. It's polite to shake hands with everyone in attendance when you meet them for the first time and introduce yourself.