PROTOCOL AND ETIQUETTE IN THE WORLD OF BUSINESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Ceremonial protocol and etiquette are no longer the exclusive preserve of the diplomatic world. They have increasingly become essential tools in supporting social engagements of all kinds, across the political, cultural, business, economic and financial spheres.

This presupposes that guests have the appropriate knowledge and skills to fulfil their role, observing the established rules for each occasion. Indeed, in certain circumstances, protocol and etiquette may be considered complementary, and at times almost interchangeable.

The organisation and practical arrangements involved in staging events are also governed by protocol rules, whether the events are public or private.

Do we understand what is meant by the concept of precedence?

The rules of protocol in each country establish the order of precedence, determining the appropriate position or place assigned to each national or foreign authority or dignitary attending a particular occasion or ceremony.

A brief look at official protocol helps us understand how these rules are applied to business and private events with a certain degree of formality, as well as to occasions of a mixed nature, where official dignitaries and members of the business community may meet.

For those of us working in business, culture, economics or finance, it is essential to know how to interpret the rules and guidelines set out in the invitations we receive.

And what about you? Are you familiar with these rules? Do you have any doubts or uncertainties? Do you feel comfortable attending informal, formal and official events?

Can you interpret different types of invitations and, beyond simply confirming your attendance, understand the level of formality required, identify the appropriate dress code and know how to respond correctly.

EDDA