First impressions are often made within seven seconds of a meeting and are difficult, if not impossible, to change. Among other things, this course helps you leave a great first impression. It also addresses how to deal with others in a business setting considering differences in culture and region. Since business is often conducted over lunch or dinner, dining skills can also impact someone opinion of you as a potential business partner.

 During the days of this course you will also get tips on how to apply proper manners and business etiquette in many different settings. In addition, many diplomatic incidents occur due to the personnel's lack of understanding of various protocol standards. Therefore, a portion of the course is dedicated to introducing the international rules of protocol that need to be implemented during formal occasions and visits.

Course objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Explain how to behave correctly in both business and social situations
• Describe how to interact and communicate effectively with different types of guests
• Demonstrate appropriate personal and professional conduct
• Plan VIP visits and formal occasions while executing the role of the ideal host
• Apply proper communication etiquette
• Implement different variations in protocol and etiquette from different cultures, nations and regions

Course outlines

Module 1: Fundamentals of Public Relations, Protocol and Business Etiquette

·         Concepts and Principles of Protocol and Etiquette

·         Corporate Image and Professional Conduct

·         Business Manners and Workplace Behaviour

·         Importance of Protocol in Organizations

·         Professional Standards and Ethics

·         Communication Etiquette Essentials

Module 2: Professional Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness

·         Telephone and Email Etiquette

·         Meeting Etiquette and Professional Interactions

·         Titles, Forms of Address, and Introductions

·         Managing Difficult Personalities

·         Professional Gift-Giving and Hospitality

·         Resolving Awkward Situations Professionally

Module 3: Protocol Management for Official Functions and VIP Engagements

·         Planning and Coordinating VIP Events

·         Official Visits and Reception Protocol

·         Hosting Skills and Guest Management

·         Seating Arrangements and Event Protocol

·         Secretarial Protocol and Official Symbols

·         Risk Management and Common Protocol Mistakes

Module 4: International Etiquette, Cultural Awareness and Meetings Management

·         International Business Etiquette

·         Understanding Customs and Cultural Differences

·         Global Protocol Best Practices

·         Variations in International Protocol and Etiquette

·         Effective Meetings Planning and Management

·         Building Professional Relationships Across Cultures and Organizations

Who should attend

Personnel officers, public relations professionals, event organizers, personal assistants, employees in the hospitality business and all those whose position requires dealing and interacting with important persons in both government and private sectors.

Methodology

The course is designed to be interactive and participatory and includes various learning tools to enable the participants to operate effectively and efficiently in a multifunctional environment. The course is built on four learning pillars: concept learning (lectures and presentations), role playing (group exercises), experience sharing (roundtable discussions) and exposure to real world problems and policy choices confronting delegates.