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Business Protocol

While at university, I attended a short course on protocol and etiquette. I can’t remember much about it except that the teacher was absolutely hilarious, and that I enjoyed the subject a lot. After sorting through my university notes, I found the notes I took at the time, and I wanted to share them here. 

Protocol is understood as a system of rules that explain the correct conduct and procedures to be followed in formal situations. It is a way to institutionalise public and private events, describing the behaviour and procedures to be followed during these events.

The reason why I find it so interesting is because protocol rules are based on the relationship between the different parties attending the event. When used within a business environment, it conveys the company’s values, philosophy and image to the other party. Therefore, it can be used as a way to consolidate the reputation of the company among its employees and clients alike. It can be used as a tool to build and develop long-lasting business relationships.

As an example, when sitting at a table during a formal event, the highest representative of the company will be at the top of the table, and to the right, the guest of honour or second-highest representative. The rest of the attendees will be arranged around the table according to the company’s organisational chart. However, this can be changed to follow other criteria such as seniority or alphabetical order, depending on the objective of the event. 

On the other hand, this will change if a member of a governmental body is attending the company’s event. As an interesting fact, each country has different protocol procedures that differ slightly from one another. Protocol rules will also advise regarding the decoration of the venue during the event, introductions among attendees and the positioning of the company’s logos, flags and even the tables and chairs. 

Most people will be familiar with the protocol typically followed at the table (good manners), and what kind of clothing and clothing is appropriate. For example, how to combine different colours, what kind of suit to wear or the fact that olives can be eaten by hand at formal events in some countries. If this wasn’t enough, there are protocol procedures available for talking on the phone, giving presents and even for packing luggage before a trip. 

If you happen to be involved in establishing the protocol to be followed during an event, you might be asked to create a briefing, taking into account the audience, objective and budget of the event. This document will also include the theme of the event, the audience’s expectations and likess, security measures, outreach and feedback. 

If you would like to learn more about protocol and etiquette, here are some insightful resources:
  • Managing Authentic Relationships: Facing New Challenges in a Changing Context, by Jean Paul Wijers 
  • An Experts' Guide to International Protocol: Best Practices in Diplomatic and Corporate Relations, by Gilbert Monod de Froideville 
  • Protocol: The complete Handbook of Diplomatic, Official and Social Usage, by Mary Jane McCaffree
  • The Essentials of Business Etiquette: How to Greet, Eat, and Tweet Your Way to Success, by Barbara Pachter 
  • Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands: The Bestselling Guide to Doing Business in More Than 60 Countries, by Terri Morrison 
  • Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind, by Geert Hofstede



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