Adriana – Page 16 – Protocol Today

VIP Interview with Reinier W.L Russell, Lawyer and Honorary Consul of Brazil to the Kingdom of The Netherlands

VIP Interview with Reinier W.L Russell, Lawyer and Honorary consul of Brazil to the Kingdom of The Netherlands, Amsterdam, 7 June 2022

About Reinier Russell

Russell Advocaten was founded in 1943 by Mr W.M.J. Russell, especially for business.

Reinier Russell specializes in corporate, human resources, real estate and government issues. He has been a lawyer since 1990. He is also a certified mediator.

Reinier is a member of the Board of Directors of the International Society of Primerus Law Firms. In addition to his work as a lawyer, Reinier is an honorary consul of Brazil and director of various charitable institutions.

What does your company do?

We are a law firm in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, that has been in operation for nearly 80 years and specialises in international business in Dutch markets. We deal with all aspects of foreign investors on the Dutch market, whether they have subsidiaries here or are just starting, whether they have employment here or are looking to relocate. As you are aware, the Netherlands is very safe, and everyone is bilingual. If you walk through a park in the Netherlands, everyone speaks any language from all over the world, and people love it here. We have one client with 300 employees, with only two Dutch people and 298 from all over the world. This makes the Netherlands very international, and we often say it is a gateway to Europe because if you make it here, you will also make it in Germany, France, Portugal, and Spain.

How is it to be a successful businessman in the Netherlands?

Of course, the last two years during Covid were difficult; fewer incoming treats, less tourism, and the higher costs prevented people from visiting their families abroad. That was difficult for them, and governments stepped in to help business people with financial subsidies. We are still very much international-focused, making it more difficult. However, we now see a lot of work going on. People continue to flock to the Netherlands, believing it to be a haven.

How did you handle the culture gaps?

To begin with, language is very important; some countries want lawyers that speaks their language. We believe speaking a language is not as crucial as understanding someone’s business. We understand our clients’ businesses whether we represent them as an airline or a local producer. We don’t mind, but we know the company’s circumstances and on the working floor. Finally, you have to go to court, where the judge reviews three or four parties of the day, and you have to explain to the judge what is going on, what the specific circumstances are, and why being late in international delivery, for example, is so harmful to business and why there are damages. You will find that an hour later, the Judge is doing something completely different. Legally, you start with the contracts, establish the facts and circumstances of the case, and then go from there. This compels us to visit our clients and walk them through their operations to understand their processes better. When dealing with clients, you must first serve their needs and respect them. However, we are dealing with actual Dutch courts and Dutch judges, and we know our way around the legal system. Fact-finding is critical because the facts are based on what is happening within the company. Working with officers like collar workers is very different from working for a company with blue-collar workers and other circumstances.

Can you give us a few examples of cases and how you handled the case from law and soft diplomacy perspectives?

It is not always the best way to make a demand by knocking on someone’s door; perhaps it is better to first talk to someone and sit around the table. However, it is already a few years that we have new instruments such as mediation, whereby we are seated around a table, discussing the needs of one party with the needs of the other. How can we come to a mutual solution, and if that doesn’t work, we can still go to court and seize someone’s assets. Such actions can make the other party afraid or start new fights, which are not always the best options. In some cases, it is strongly advised to begin with the talk or a simple demand curve. There are numerous factors to consider, including the language spoken by the individual, regional and local issues, and the interests of both our clients and the opposing party.

You are also part of the business consulate here in the Netherlands. Would you like to share your role in this case?

I’ve been an Honorary Consul of Brazil for nearly 30 years. I have Brazilians who have difficulties in the Netherlands, such as losing their wallets, tickets, and passports. We promote the economy, trade, culture, and tourism is on the rise again. It is always nice to have someone nearby for help when you are in trouble. I’m always thinking that if I get into trouble anywhere in Brazil and a Dutch consul comes to help me, I would be overjoyed. I am also chairman of Corps Consulaire Netherlands Last year; Corps Consulaire Netherlands celebrated its 25th anniversary by publishing a beautiful book featuring 25 interviews with consuls from around the world because every country, every consul creates their networks to meet the needs of their respective countries. Every different story from 25 colleagues about what happened during their consular years was very nice to read, and I can tell you these are magnificent stories.

Compared to my legal profession, being a consul is a different challenge that cannot be planned. If a problem arises, you can’t say, “I’m going on vacation now; call me next week.” The problem must be resolved today or tomorrow, so you must change your planned schedule and begin working on it. When problems arise, you need a well-connected network to reach out to people. Because you never know how a situation will escalate, you must have made connections before it occurs.

Would you like to give a few pieces of advice to young diplomats and business people?

Facts! Facts, facts, facts! We always return to the facts when dealing with young partners and entrepreneurs. “Solve my problem, don’t look in an old contract, but solve” despite the fact that we must refer to the old contract. So, if you start your own business, make a good employment contract that includes general terms, set up your business correctly, and spend your money wisely to build it up from the start in an orderly manner that will pay out later when problems arise. In addition, meet with your company’s council, employees, customers and joint venture partners to determine whether you want what the other wants. This supports negotiation because it is not always what you want yourself nowadays.

Of course, ethics are very important. There are laws against bribery in England, so we always include bribery and good governance corruption in our international clients. Since social media has bridged the gap between employers and employees, incorporating social media clauses is also one of the aspects to include when doing business.

Exclusive interview by VIP Special Edition Magazine Global Mindset the Netherlands

Interviewed by Adriana Flores, Executive Director of ProtocolToday and Expert in Protocol & Soft Diplomacy

Rewrite by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student

Translate to Spanish by Adriana Flores and Wilfredo Pérez

Photo and video by Mick de Jong

Rights reserved by ProtocolToday

Our Thanks to the Firm Russel, Amsterdam The Netherlands

THE ORDER “THE SUN OF PERU”

I wish to relate the background, importance, and behind-the-scenes of the most significant distinction granted by the Peruvian State, whose origins go back to the birth of our republican life when the “Protector of Liberty of Peru” instituted it on October 8, 1821, to recognize the self-sacrifice of brave liberators, virtuous citizens, and good men.

In its beginnings, it was called “La orden del sol,” and according to the device signed by José de San Martín and his Minister of War and Navy, Bernardo Monteagudo, it was divided into three classifications: Founders, Meritorious, and Associates. The Founders were Generals Juan Gregorio de Las Heras, Juan Álvarez de Arenales, and Toribio Luzuriaga y Mejía, among other officers “in consideration of their distinguished services, Field Marshal Marquis of Torre Tagle, Colonel of the Numancia Battalion D. Tomas Heres and Lieutenant General Conde de Valle-Oselle,” who would enjoy preferences to occupy state positions.

The Meritorious were the members of the army from the class of lieutenant colonel up to and including second lieutenant, “whose election will be made by a meeting of the chiefs of the army presided over by the general in chief, bearing in mind the service records of the officers of each body and of the other particular circumstances that recommend them.” Associates were appointed to the nationals of any jurisdiction “who have made or will make creditors of public appreciation, to a less eminent degree than the previous ones, in the opinion of the Great Council.”

Likewise, a Great Council of the Order was established, made up of the “Supreme Chief, whether or not he is of the Order, who will be its ex officio president, a vice-president who will be the oldest among the chiefs of the army present, and nine Founders, all elected by the president of the Council,” who would have an annual pension. Unfortunately, the “Order of the Sun” was briefly valid: on March 9, 1825, the Constituent Congress declared it “extinct.”

Coinciding with the centenary of National Independence, President Augusto B. Leguía (1919-1930) restored it, on April 14, 1921, with the name “El Sol del Perú.” In this regard, Jorge Zamora Botta, in his text entitled “The Order of the Sun of Peru, 1821 – 1921,” asserts: “… It was also restored ‘to exalt the merits contracted in his service by foreigners.’ It was done on that occasion with four grades or classes: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, and Officer. The first copies were made by the famous French House Arthus Bertrand, from Paris, to begin later to be manufactured in our renowned National Mint. In the following decade, during the presidency of Oscar R. Benavides, the degree of Knight would be added, and it is with these five degrees that it is granted to this day”. Its validity is regulated by the law of August 31 and by regulation of September 6 (1923).

Its design preserves the original artistic conception and incorporates the coat of arms created in 1825. The badge is a radiant sun with gold rays; in the center, it shows the national coat of arms in relief, surrounded by a circle with enamel on its upper part—Red and white on the lower side. On the red color, it bears the inscription: “El Sol del Perú” and on white the date of its foundation: “1821”. This disc is surrounded by a crown of laurels in gold, in green varnish in the case of the large cross plate. When it is granted to sovereigns or heads of state, as well as to notable personalities, the scale of the symbols of the first degree will bear a circle of diamonds.

This award, considered the oldest in America, is conferred to “reward the extraordinary services rendered to the country by Peruvians, civilians, and military, as well as to extol the merits contracted in their service by foreigners.” The Grand Master of the Order is the first president, and its Chancellor is the Minister of Foreign Affairs. By tradition, it is assigned in its highest degree to the president-elect -before being sworn in by the Congress of the Republic- in the Palacio de Torre Tagle.

According to what is stipulated in the directive of the Ceremonial of the Diplomatic Service of the Republic, its imposition corresponds to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This can be granted by the Chancellor or, on his behalf, by the vice-chancellor or by the national director of Protocol and Ceremonial of the State. On occasions, it has been imposed by the head of the Executive Power when the act takes place in the Government Palace.

The ceremony begins with the reading of the resolution that confers the decoration, then the person in charge of the Foreign Relations portfolio will pronounce a few words and will proceed to impose the insignia and deliver the respective diploma; Next, the honoree will express his gratitude and, conclude, the attendees will be greeted.

In recent decades, personalities from the most varied disciplines and origins have received it in its highest category, such as Víctor Raúl Haya de la Torre, Fernando de Szyszlo Valdelomar, Luis Bedoya Reyes, Luis Jaime Cisneros Vizquerra, Mario Vargas Llosa, José de la Puente Candamo, Ricardo Vega Llona, Beatriz Merino Lucero, Henry Pease García, Valentín Paniagua Corazao, Manuel Aguirre Roca, Miguel Baca Rossi, Augusto Tamayo Vargas, Walter Alva Alva, among many more.

Let us evoke, with a reflective spirit and fervent conviction, the message of the Argentine hero: “…The Order of the Sun may be the heritage of the liberating warriors, the prize of virtuous citizens, and the reward of all worthy men. It will last as long as some remember the fame of the heroic years because the institutions that are formed at the beginning of a great era are perpetuated by the ideas that each generation receives when it passes through the age in which it respectfully investigates the origin of what have revered their fathers.”

http://wperezruiz.blogspot.com/

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Writer by Wilfredo Pérez, Expert in Etiquette and Protocol

21 June 2022, Peru

Category: Business Protocol

Reference: WP21062021BP

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

DINING LIKE A DIPLOMAT: COURTESY AND PROTOCOL IN THE PRIVATE SPHERE. PART II

PART I

From an organizational standpoint, well-defined objectives are required to seek the guests’ satisfaction and are specified in an action plan that fulfills the host’s purpose.

It is necessary to address a number of factors that require special attention during its planning, which I will discuss.

In the appropriateness of the celebration date, it is chosen based on factors that are critical to its precision. Suppose we want to ensure the presence of our guests. In that case, we must choose the most appropriate, considering holidays, religious festivities, and calls for other events of relevant social interest or bringing together the diplomatic community.

The Guestlist

It is undeniably important that it be carried out by the purpose and nature of the dinner to facilitate its development and allow for a balance of classes among the attendees. To facilitate the achievement of the stated goal, a list of diners must be compiled to whom the subsequent invitation will be sent.

The Formal Invitation

A formal dinner is printed correctly, admitting its style in various formats. Of course, it must include basic information about the dinner, such as the identity of the hosts, the guests and their treatment, the reason for the invitation, the location, date, time, address, confirmation telephone number, and etiquette. It is prudent to suggest the same, and it is the guests’ courtesy to comply. The envelope must be of sufficient quality and include the name, position, and address of the people it addresses. If it is a casual occasion, it can be done verbally, over the phone, or in person, as is more common nowadays. The information sent must be identical. The classic rule recommends a term of advance for the shipment or communication between fifteen and twenty days, though between twenty and thirty days would also be appropriate.

Menu selection based on convenience

For the occasion, the appetizer should not be too filling and should consist of two or three diverse types of snacks presented in small bites that can be held in one hand and eaten at the same time. It should be about thirty minutes long, but it can be a little longer.

Meal

The menu must be planned and prepared with the host’s preferences. As with the appetizer, the guests’ potential incompatibilities with certain foods must be considered due to their food preferences, religion, or food allergies or intolerances.

Beverages and drinks

It is recommended to offer a variety of wines in white and red varieties. Mineral water with and without gas, juices, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and beer. Only white and red wine, water, and champagne or cava will be served during dinner, depending on the occasion.

The Presidency

This specifies where the “lords of the house,” or hosts, must sit. There are two systems for placement: at the center of the table, as in the French presidency, or at the ends of the table, as in the English presidency. In this regard, determining your situation is advantageous. When using the French system, the host sits in front of the windows, and the host sits in front of the door through which the service is accessed. In the Anglo-Saxon system, however, the host must do it in front of the guest entrance, and the host must do it in front of the service access door. In the case of dining rooms with windows at one end of the room or dining rooms without windows, these two systems use the same point of reference to define such a position, the service entrance facing the host—presidency assignment. When the host voluntarily gives up his seat at dinner, he is to stand to the chairman’s left. However, if the work is required, he must be assigned to the appropriate person.

The Precedents

Precedents determine the order and priority of the guests based on primacy, rank, level, or relevance. As a result, they are considered even in private acts because they are evidence of courtesy. To accomplish this, each component of the guest list must be examined individually, considering the priorities that allow for their practical application. These are to be used flexibly, so hosts are free to use them if their application is consistent and fair.

Guests’ seating arrangements at the table

Guests will be assembled in the previously established order of precedence. There are two options for doing so. Clock System: Diners are seated clockwise around the hosts, beginning with guest number one, moving to number two, and so on: first chair right, the first chair left; right of the second presidency, left of the second presidency until all guests are accommodated at the table—cartesian system. The guests are arranged in the direction of an X’s crosses. In order of precedence, begin with guest number 1 and work your way down to the last: right of the first chair, right of the second chair; left of the first chair, left of the second chair; and so on until all the guests are located.

Table Service

For such an occasion, the table must be elegantly dressed in fleece and tablecloth, crockery, glasses, cutlery, napkins, and bread plates. The complete set is referred to as personal table service. Good taste in the hosts’ style must prevail in its decoration, and a certain height must not be exceeded that prevents frontal vision between the guests. Regarding cutlery placement and use, we use the plate as the center because that is how you will dine from the outside.

Welcomes and farewells

The hosts must be cautious when filling out the welcome and farewell forms. The guests are greeted in the lobby or entrance and escorted to the exit, where they are thanked for attending the call. When the dinner is finished, the guests can say their goodbyes after the main guest has left. The organizers’ formulas must be concise and personable.

As Aristotle said, “We are what we do every day. So that excellence is not an act but a habit¨.

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Writer by María Amóros

21 June 2022, Spain

Category: Business Protocol

Reference: MA211062022BP

Re-edited by Eric Muhia

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

PROTOCOL IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OF COMPANIES PART I

The respect and interest we show for the customs of a foreign country can become the easiest way to reach a good agreement. The protocol in companies is essential for commercial relations with foreign companies and officials, so the points to be considered within a business trip to another country by the senior managers of a corporation will be exposed in this article.

The success of commercial transactions depends to a greater extent on the ability to adapt and respect the original customs of the business people with whom we will meet. Therefore, the following points will be analyzed, which are vital for the interrelation with other cultures in the field of the company and the business:

The company, understand who we are as a company, and know the mission, vision, and values of the corporation to visit.

Nature of the trip, it is essential to know the purpose of the trip, if it is to close an agreement, exchange knowledge, a courtesy visit, etc. Depending on this information, we will proceed to organize the trip.

Initial budget: It is necessary to consider the initial budget available for the organization’s development and execution of the trip to avoid overdrawing or having a tight budget.

Date and duration of the trip, knowing the dates and space of the trip are of great importance to set the budget, activities, procedures, necessary documentation, logistics, and recommendations of the expedition of senior managers.

Calendar of holidays, knowing the holidays or non-working days in the city where the meetings or activities are held will allow you to go on working or not working days so that time will not be wasted and the hours that the stay lasts will be maximized.

People who travel and how many members the expedition will have it’s other valuable points when working on the preparations for the business trip, to obtain budgets, hotel reservations, the purchase of plane tickets, the number of meetings, etc.

Necessary documentation, for every trip, it is important to see the papers and documents that will need to be presented in the city where the event takes place. In addition to the COVID biosecurity protocols for entering a new country.

Knowing what procedures to carry out and executing them in advance will prevent you from having a wrong time or unnecessary anguish in the fight against the clock to complete any procedure.

Insurance and coverage, it is better to have insurance than to lack one; therefore, it should be considered which insurance and coverage are best suited to the travel times, the destination, and the passengers of the expedition.

Accommodation: The Hotel must be appropriate to the image we intend to give, be strategically located, easily accessible and have the necessary services to hold meetings and gatherings.

The Hotel must have a privileged location and be close to several restaurants and facilities.

A booklet with hotel information must be provided to managers, which must have the following information: Hotel name, address, telephone number, room number, and type of room. Also, provide a hotel location map.

In addition, information will be provided to the Hotel if the company directors have food intolerances or special diets for adequate attention to senior officials.

Agenda, each manager will be given a folder in the central office that will contain the detailed program of the business trip, a cultural dossier with information about the city, and a booklet with contact numbers for the emergency meetings. In addition to this, the number of the head of the company’s Protocol cabinet will be provided, where they can contact the company if it’s necessary.

The itinerary is the detailed set of activities carried out during the expedition’s stay.

All these points mentioned are helpful in the field of business protocol. Corporate behavior codes reinforce the company’s image.

Adaptation, respect, and interest in the customs of the interlocutors can achieve a good agreement.

In the second part of this article, relevant issues will be addressed when developing the trip and using the protocol in business management.

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18 June 2022, Peru

Category: Business Protocol

Reference: JP18062022BP

Photography: Eva Darron

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

DIASPORA AS A NEW TOOL IN DIPLOMACY

For a long time, diplomacy has been changing and evolving. Diplomacy has become more visible, and new diplomacy and diplomatic tools have emerged. The number of actors has grown. The emergence of new technologies, such as social media has also changed how diplomacy is conducted. Diaspora, on the other hand, is a much less discussed diplomatic tool. A country’s Diaspora can also be used to conduct diplomacy. “Both ‘diaspora’ and ‘diplomacy’ are concepts that have grown in popularity in recent years, indicating a shift away from viewing Diaspora as a descriptive category and diplomacy as the practice of state officials, respectively.

Diaspora diplomacy is a relatively new term that has gained currency at a time when cultivating external relations is a multifaceted process with many participants. Diaspora diplomacy is influencing and negotiating between nations by utilizing a country’s Diaspora to advance the home country’s interests.

Importance of Diaspora Diplomacy.

It promotes cross-border trade by acting as a middleman, providing market information and consumer preferences in both the host and origin countries. Diasporas have contributed to the development of their home countries by sending remittances and managing businesses in the latter. The Diaspora contributes to poverty alleviation at the household level through remittances sent to relatives. Diasporas promote their homeland’s image and culture. As a result, they serve as a tool for displaying a country’s soft power. Soft power is the ability to influence others to achieve desired results through attraction rather than coercion or the use of force.

Limitations

Most of the Diaspora migrates to other countries in search of better opportunities. A country’s diasporic community may be too small to make a difference. Diaspora diplomacy stems from the fact that Diasporas may be unwilling to engage with their home country and its government due to their critical view of their home country and its government. As a result, Diasporas may express their dissatisfaction loudly, negatively impacting the country’s image.

Diaspora Diplomacy Approaches in Foreign Policy

Diasporas frequently agree with their country of origin’s policies on foreign policy issues confronting the homeland and mobilize to support such policies. The collaboration between Jewish Americans and the Israeli government regarding Israel’s security is an example of diaspora-country cooperation. Foreign policy disagreements between homelands and diasporas have previously occurred between the government of Ireland and Irish Americans regarding Northern Ireland or between the government of Armenia and Armenian Americans regarding Turkey’s recognition of the Armenian genocide as a condition for normalized relations between Turkey and Armenia.

Governments should take a facilitative rather than an implementing role. Knowledge sharing and network access are two of the most significant benefits a country can obtain through Diaspora Diplomacy. New diplomacy initiatives alone will not result in successful diaspora diplomacy if foreign ministries do not adopt a new diplomacy mindset. Governments should prioritize communication, cooperation, and fostering an open, flexible, and transparent culture.

Diaspora Diplomacy in Cultural Exchange

The Diaspora’s role in cultural exchange, international affairs, and economic development is now well established. What is new is the growing proliferation of national strategies for actively leveraging them for public diplomacy. Diaspora communities have long relied on networks to maintain cultural and economic ties, but networks are also essential to the Diaspora’s role in public diplomacy. The concept of diaspora networks as an extension of a country’s hard (economic) and soft (cultural) power is now widely accepted. For centuries, diasporas have served as an extension of national prestige (or decline). Much thought has gone into the economic productivity of migrants and the role of remittances in maintaining cultural ties and assisting development.

Ireland

When it comes to diaspora diplomacy and diaspora strategy, Ireland is a forerunner. Ireland has launched several unique and innovative initiatives. However, as stated in the DFA’s official Diaspora Policy communication, there is still much to learn from the Diaspora and other countries. As a result, they are willing to learn from others and share their knowledge and experiences. They acknowledge that the DFA and the Irish Abroad Unit (the DFA’s specialized unit for diaspora matters, hereafter IAU) do not have a monopoly on this knowledge but that it is shared by Irish universities, NGOs, and private individuals. As a result, they believe that all these players must communicate and collaborate to broaden their knowledge on the subject. Finally, the DFA states that they will “support efforts to use Ireland as a hub for research into the potential and reach of diasporas, as well as the practical application of such research.”

Greece

There has been almost no research on Greek diaspora diplomacy. Research on the Greek Diaspora is available, but not from an IR perspective. The only study on diaspora diplomacy found in the Ministry’s library dates to 1996 and focuses on the success of the Greek Diaspora in lobbying the American government. The fleeing of Greeks after the fall of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) to the Ottomans is one of the most notable historical moments for using the term Greek diaspora. Currently, the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad seeks to support the Diaspora’s interests and expectations while strengthening ties between the Diaspora and the homeland. GSGA’s goals include assisting the Diaspora in preserving national and cultural identity, as well as history, culture, and religion; promoting Greek culture through time; strengthening Greek networks abroad that can bridge friendship and cooperation between Greece and the other diaspora host countries; supporting Greek national interests abroad; providing for Greek schools, youth welcoming programs at home, and the use of new technologies; and funding and sustaining the operation of GSGA.

Conclusion

Ph.D. scholars can understand the social consequences of the Diaspora’s split existence by situating Diaspora in global social fields that connect their places of origin and destination. Investigating the complex web of diplomatic, economic, social, political, and emotional transnational diaspora relations and ties can ultimately advance the study and policy making in diaspora diplomacy.

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Writer by Eric Muhia, International Studies, and Diplomacy Graduate Student and Young Diplomat

17 June 2022, Kenya

Category: Diplomacy

Reference: EM17052022D

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GIFT GIVING AND DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA

DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA I

DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA II

GIFTS

Giving gifts is part of ancient Chinese culture; offering them is a sign of courtesy and good manners, although this custom was only in the private sphere. In the government sphere, gifts are illegal to avoid possible bribes, and there is some circumstantial flexibility in the business and political spheres.

Although this consideration of bribery is no longer widespread, it is possible for someone to refuse a gift (even out of habit, as will be explained later) or to be unwelcome. Some people or groups will not change or adapt to certain changes.

A banquet is the most acceptable if you want to make a gift. An excellent way to give away is an invitation to eat; Generally, this invitation is a form of welcoming. If we are invited to a meal, we must reciprocate our hosts by inviting them to a similar one. This way of reciprocating is a way of following Chinese protocol and being polite in responding to their attention.

Otherwise, we must bear in mind that Western-type gifts are highly appreciated, and more so those that have to do with some traditional or typical gift from the country of origin; that is to say, the best accepted to give to a company are the crafts of our country and the books that speak of the customs, history or geography of the same; (or the region or area from which we come). Additionally, it requires a clear message regarding the type and company we represent. Nothing to give doubts. If in addition to making the gift, we can explain its meaning, which is much better for them. In this way, they find a more excellent justification for it.

Among the most recommended gifts to make on our visit to China, we can indicate the following:

If you live in Europe, Cognac or French brandy, whiskey, or any liquor typical of the country;
Quality fountain pens or ballpoint pens;
Lighters and cigars;
Desk accessories, such as calculators or other small electronics for the office;
Books of History, Folklore, or Art (better if they refer to our country);
Small framed paintings and small sculptures;
On certain occasions, a seal could be part of the Chinese hobby;
The ginseng is a detail that they appreciate. Above all, if the country of cultivation is our country of origin.

Among the gifts that are not recommended, we can mention:

Nothing to do with coins or cash;
Cheese is not usually in their diet and, therefore, not a treat they appreciate. It is not a food that they like very much;
Wine is also not a very appropriate gift for reasons similar to the previous one;
Giving them a basket of fruit means poverty. Even if you have a good friendship, fruit is not a good gift;
Just as 4 is a number related to death, the number 40 should not be referred to, and therefore, nothing related to these numbers should be given away;
Do not give anything in green (a green shirt, a green hat, etc.). Any clothing that is green means to them that someone in the family has committed adultery;
It is discouraged to give watches if the recipient is older. It is a hint that he has little time left to live. The word “clock” implies death, burial, or funeral;
Other gifts associated with death or funeral themes are straw sandals and handkerchiefs;
Scissors, knives, paper knives, and any other cutting object could insinuate the cutting of relationships or friendships;

There are significant differences between negotiating with private companies or doing it with official organizations and entities. The first ones are much more receptive to changes and adapt better to novelty. In both cases, if we are going to give away, we must do it with enough discretion. The Chinese usually reject the gift at first and can reject it up to three times, but if you insist (because they do it out of courtesy, not to seem eager to receive something), they will end up accepting. Once they accept our gift, they will visibly show their gratitude. In return, it is easy for them to want to reciprocate with another gift. If they do, also out of courtesy, we will have to do a “ritual” similar to the one they do; reject it at first, and accept it after a second or third offer.

We also have to differentiate institutional gifts from individual gifts. Suppose the gift is institutional, from company to company. In that case, it is likely that, for the Chinese, there should be something for everyone, and gifts should not be given only to some of the components of the representation. When gifts are given to an entire group, a negotiation team, or a specific delegation, we will not distinguish between them. Everyone should receive the same type of gift.

If we wish to give a gift to a specific person, it should not involve a personal level, and we will do it in private with discretion, taking care not to inconvenience the rest of the staff. A single general gift for the entire representation must be given in the presence of all. The best thing would be to give it personally at the company’s facilities; the highest-ranking boss or executive; to the highest-level representative of the delegation or leader of the negotiating group with whom we have contact since they have a fairly rigid hierarchical scheme and it would be incorrect to give it to a person of lower status. It is shown to everyone, even if it is only given to the representative or spokesperson. On the other hand, it is better to ensure that we bring enough gifts to reciprocate surprise attention for our visit.

Likewise, if we need to improve the relationship with a delegation, it is allowed to give a small gift to each one, in the order in which they were presented to us. Remember that China’s precedence is very important and deserves much attention.

Gifts are given with both hands and received in the same way, as a ritual that represents an “offering.”

Although it is a custom in the West, photographs of the gifts should not be taken, not even as a souvenir. No photos are taken of the facilities (at least without asking permission). If a gift is given at a general level for the entire representation or company and you want to immortalize the moment, we can do it if the hosts grant permission.

Another recommendation, perhaps the most important, is never to give a gift of great value because it would embarrass the recipient. It always has to be of a moderate value. The reason? There is an order of reciprocity, implying that we force the other party to make the same monetary effort. Usually, an expensive gift will be considered offensive by our eastern counterparts.

Starting by giving away things of value is a significant misstep; Initially, small details are given away. When the negotiations have concluded and a good business relationship has been established, we can think about making some corporate gift of some value.

Another consideration: when going through customs, Chinese officials tend to carefully check all the packages that we try to introduce into the country, especially those that contain food, and they do so with considerable curiosity. If they ask: What is this? or how does this work? We must give as detailed an explanation as possible. They like these explanations.

Small objects almost never cause problems; however, objects of great value could be taken as contraband.

Likewise, wrapping the gift before arriving in China is not recommended, as we will surely have to open it at customs control. We will likely have to unwrap them to display their content. If you have to take the gifts packaged, make it an easy-to-open package. After passing the appropriate inspections, we will do the good packaging at the hotel.

And, in relation to the wrapping, it is as important as the gift. On the one hand, it shows the interest we have placed in it; on the other, the color can give the wrong message. You have to avoid black, white, or blue representing death.

The best color to wrap the gift will be red, which is the favorite and represents luck. Other colors safe from special connotations are pink and gold. If the wrapper is yellow with black letters, it also means something related to funerals and death. However, the colors may have a slightly different meaning depending on our location. With the rest of the colors, you have to be very careful because, in China, most colors have a special meaning.

One of the best options to avoid trouble is to have the gifts wrapped in a store or a hotel unit.

In addition, there are certain superstitions about numbers. A gift with the number eight (eight flowers, eight cups, eight saucers, etc.) symbolizes good luck. For them, the number 6 is the number of concords, which helps solve problems or setbacks and smooth out tense situations. In addition to 4, other prohibited numbers are 73, which means funeral, and 84, which means misfortune, prone to accidents. If you have any doubts about a number, it would be wise to ask to avoid any compromising situation.

As the Japanese (by the way, better not to talk about them, it is not uncommon for them to have a special dislike for them), the Chinese do not open gifts when they are received. Most gifts are not opened in the presence of the giver. They have a habit of opening them in private. However, many business people and executives who know Western customs could open them in our presence as a courtesy.

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Writer by Claudia STOHMANN R. de A. Communicator, speaker, writer, etiquette, and protocol expert.

16 June 2022, Bolivia

Category: Business Etiquette

Reference: CS16062022BE

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

Gustavo Caballero

Specialised writer
ARGENTINA

INTOLERANCE: A WAY OF LIFE?

Intolerance is a synonym for sectarianism, obstinacy, and stubbornness. Because it reveals severe emotional deficiencies, we adapt to living with that wrong way of proceeding. This is, without a doubt, another example of the apathy that characterizes us so much.

We live in a social context that promotes poor development and poor performance. Worse, we accept the intense atmosphere of intolerance that affects human relationships with resignation and bemusement. I am concerned about how quickly it spreads and disrupts our quality of life in the most diverse scenarios. It’s in our blood.

I could go on and on about the numerous everyday situations that indicate growing intolerance. Our ability to understand and accept others is deteriorating. We are in a process that is threatening our survival. However, we are doing little or nothing to change this abrasive environment. We are all part of a vicious circle that no longer deserves to be broken.

We see it in heated arguments between couples or between parents and children, where the arrogance of the highest authority imposes its determination; in companies where the boss considers himself the absolute owner of the truth and refuses to admit discrepancies; in political events, where the inability to cohabit with the adversary is undeniable; and even in supermarket queues. The brand new “stress” that we all claim to be victims of is the ideal ruse to justify our lack of deference.

It is simple to understand the vicious cycle caused by intolerance. It is related to a lack of emotional intelligence, making it easier to understand others’ feelings, cope with work pressures and frustrations, and enhance our ability to work as a team and adopt an empathic attitude. This fusion of interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence translates into a broad understanding of one’s emotions. It paves the way for stress management and problem-solving in this way.

It is also associated with a lack of openness. The eagerness to consider ourselves “owners of the truth,” regardless of gender, age, or social status, indicates a high level of intolerance. The lack of a democratic vocation influences this nefarious act to accept the thoughts and options of others as valid. It is inextricably linked to empathy deprivation, the extraordinary ability to put ourselves in our interlocutor’s “shoes” to understand him despite our differences. Knowledge and the internalization of social skills are promoted in this manner, making it an important tool in combating intolerance.

It is inconvenient for some people to develop this faculty because it would force them to assume a comprehensive response in situations where it is easier to respond with aggression, alteration, and obfuscation. At the same time, angry behavior instills fear in others. Some people, orphans of self-control, seek this as a defensive mechanism to avoid being subjected to the critical scrutiny of their surroundings. It is common among parents, officials, teachers, and others. An honest examination of human behavior demonstrates this.

In this regard, I would like to reiterate what I said in my article “Tolerance in Etiquette”: “… though it is difficult for us to admit it, we should recognize that we are part of a community where understanding and benevolence are not incorporated into our daily conduct.” We can confirm this by attending a social gathering and observing the behavior of ladies and gentlemen during conversations about emotional or contentious issues such as politics, sports, etc. We see it in the press media, which ostensibly has transparency, objectivity, and serenity to guide citizen opinion.

Intolerance harms our rational condition, impedes social coexistence, sharpens existing conflicts, and exposes our primitive performance. From my perspective, it’s like the tip of an “iceberg,” revealing the extent of our internal narrowness. It is unfortunate to confirm humanity’s inability to consider others and incorporate understanding, consent, good manners, urbanity, courtesy, and plurality as elements to make life viable and peaceful.

Finally, I recommend it with a reflective spirit and the hope of committing ourselves to the well-versed words of Mahatma Gandhi, the lucid pacifist, thinker, and leader of India’s independence: “I dislike the word tolerance, but I cannot think of a better alternative. Love compels us to have the same regard for the faith of others that we have for our own “.

http://wperezruiz.blogspot.com/

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Writer by Wilfredo Peréz Ruiz, an expert in Etiquette and Protocol

15 June 2022, Peru

Category: Business Éthics

Reference: WP15062022BE

Photography: Antonio Janeski

Review by Eric Muhia, co-editor of the English language

THE ART OF COMMUNICATION IN BUSINESS

With the high usage of our mobile devices and other forms of media communication, people are shredding their common everyday skills of face-to-face interactions. Some people have difficulties when faced with the task of mingling in a crowd of unfamiliar and sometimes familiar acquaintances. We’d rather send a text message to someone in the same room than hold a personal conversation or avoid communication altogether.

Good communication skills are still a vital part of our everyday interactions. A good Conversationalist can talk to anyone about anything in a laid-back, casual manner that sets people at ease. They can make a stranger feel like they have known them for years. Some people have a natural “sliver-tongue.” Being prepared with good communication skills will boost your chat in ways that make you a valued party guest or set you apart at a networking event, company functions, or a simple social gathering. For starters, listen more than you talk.

Ironically enough, the key to being a great conversationalist is not in the talking but in the listening. If you are conversing with someone and doing all the talking, you are probably the only one interested in what you say. Listen to what others have to say and listen well. This will also lead to questions you can ask to progress the conversations further. When asking questions, ask open-ended questions. Open-ended questions encourage the respondent to elaborate or provide details in their response. Closed-ended questions with a simple yes or no reply will ultimately send the entire conversation on a downward spiraling dead-end.

Avoid political and religious topics unless you are attending your political party’s convention or a familiar religious function. Both of these areas deal with personal matters for many people and are not good for light conversations in mixed gatherings. They can sour a mood quickly. Also, keep in mind not to ask questions that are too personal or insulting. You want to make friends, not enemies.

Take your turn. Whether the conversation is with one person or several, join in. A conversation is a group project with each person playing a part. Don’t just stand around like an eavesdropper.

Contribute to the conversation. This is prime time to ask open-ended questions if you have nothing to add. On the other hand, don’t overshare or monopolize. It’s not a monologue.

Everyone should contribute. When you add to the conversation, avoid talking or directing your conversation to only one person. Make eye contact with others in the group. Be careful not to interrupt others.

Don’t be a Debbie or Donnie Downer. No one wants to engage in a conversation with someone who has nothing but negative comments about everything. People will exit your presence fast! It’s the quickest way to find yourself alone without anyone to engage with. Try to find the positive in the conversation and respond to that.

Don’t engage in “one-upping.” So, what is one-upping? That is when you try to top someone else’s story. If you have a good story to share, find a way without making the other person feel their story was of no value. Not only is one-upping petty, but it’s also very rude. You may have a terrific story to tell but reconsider at the risk of deflating someone else’s balloon.

Think before you speak. Most foot-in-mount moments occur because of a failure to think before speaking. You never want to be offensive, and you don’t want to embarrass yourself or others. Be careful what you say. You never know who’s listening, nor do you know who others know.

Be prepared with what to say and not say. Before you attend your event, think of some general topics and questions that will be of interest to anyone. “One of the easiest ways to start a conversation or stay in touch always offers value.” (Kesha Kent, Networking Is Your Superpower). Most of all, be friendly and confident. This will help you to be a savvy conversationalist.

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Writer by Renita Jackson, Etiquette Specialist

14 June 2022, USA

Category: Business Etiquette

Reference: RJ14062022BE

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

THE OVERVIEW OF PROTOCOL AS WE LIVE GLOBALLY

This article is written on the first anniversary of the ProtocolToday Magazine Global Mindset. Its corporate purpose is to share, promote, discuss and publish the principle of protocol worldwide in different sectors and to deliberate on the global mentality.

This is defined as a system of rules that allows individuals, corporations, and systems to act and behave correctly in a formal situation. For example, the protocol has been seen in different cases, such as sports, cultural, social, commercial, diplomatic, and other activities.

S the world became more globally connected and faster, it also became imperative to apply protocol procedures. Otherwise, we will continue to face, shortly, more pessimistic scenarios such as wars in the world. From the diplomatic perspective, mainly those situations are caused by successive disagreements and breaches of protocol. Therefore, the rules are essential to continue driving safely globally, as it is now known as the global village.

Covid-19 was a clear manifestation of the protocol in the proper sense during the pandemic. All nations have adopted the Covid Protocol and have acted together for a common goal. However, the global mentality has played an essential role in putting them all in the same place in the “basket.” So I would emphasize that it is imperative to continue discussing such an important issue directly connected to today’s global mindset.

As a ProtocolToday Academy student, I would like to highlight the importance of protocol, referring to the significant contribution in the field of Diplomacy of the honorable ambassador of Portugal, José Calvet de Magalhães; in his book “The pure concept of Diplomacy.”

The importance of the protocol in the diplomatic field appears as a solid element and a foundation of the concept of Diplomatic Protocol. His book is based on international treaties and protocol documents that govern international relations and organizations, based on the Vienna International Convention on diplomatic and consular relations.

In addition, Ambassador José Calvet de Magalhães was referred to by the letter addressed to British Ambassador George Kennan, in which he stated: “It is particularly important that a book like yours came out precisely at this time; by recent events, especially with the acceleration of electronic communications and the personal travel habits of the ministries, and the head of state, has to raise doubts in certain cases to the public about the traditional institutional values of Diplomacy.” Magalhães, J. (1995): The pure concept of diplomacy: Bertrand Editora.

So, in the above passage, the author mentioned and emphasized the lack of protocols and ethics in some situations, so we can conclude that the protocol is necessary and essential for the stability of the government and to solidify the relationship of trust. Between rulers and ruled.

The protocol is extensive and difficult to summarize in this text. Therefore, this article shows its general and positive impact in a way that helps regulate procedures, conduct, and coordinate business, negotiations, actions, and behaviors that can be observed and implemented in different sectors such as cultural protocol, social protocol, and communication protocol, business, and diplomatic protocol.

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About Reinier Russell

What does your company do?

How is it to be a successful businessman in the Netherlands?

How did you handle the culture gaps?

Can you give us a few examples of cases and how you handled the case from law and soft diplomacy perspectives?

You are also part of the business consulate here in the Netherlands. Would you like to share your role in this case?

Would you like to give a few pieces of advice to young diplomats and business people?

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Exclusive interview by VIP Special Edition Magazine Global Mindset the Netherlands

Interviewed by Adriana Flores, Executive Director of ProtocolToday and Expert in Protocol & Soft Diplomacy

Rewrite by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student

Translate to Spanish by Adriana Flores and Wilfredo Pérez

Photo and video by Mick de Jong

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