Business Diplomat: Across Cultures

International business is conducted among people who do not share the same habits. In this part of its interview series, Business Diplomat presents the practical advantage that Sherzod Abdunazarov, Consul General of Uzbekistan in Istanbul, sees in diplomatic knowledge. A consul represents his country among foreign hosts every day, and his answer reflects that position.

First observation: protocol as an advantage
“Knowing diplomatic rules and protocol provides an important advantage in international business relations.”
The choice of the word “advantage” presents protocol as something that gives its holder an edge, not as a burden. In a market where products and prices are often similar, the party that knows how to behave can distinguish itself.

Second observation: communication
“It makes it easier to communicate correctly with people from different cultures.”
The adverb “correctly” is the key. The same message can be received in very different ways. A direct statement may be read as honesty in one culture and as rudeness in another; silence may signify agreement or disagreement. Protocol knowledge gives a business person a map of such differences, so that the message sent is the message received.

Third observation: negotiation
It also helps “to conduct negotiations more soundly.” A sound negotiation is one in which the parties spend their effort on the substance. When it is clear who speaks first, how the agenda proceeds and what manner is expected, there is less time lost to procedure and less risk of accidental offence. The parties can then concentrate on finding agreement.

The logic of the assessment
Protocol knowledge is an advantage. It improves communication across cultures and makes negotiation sounder. The two benefits are connected: correct communication is what allows negotiation to proceed without friction.

The role of Business Diplomat
The platform’s mission is to give young people experience, bring a diplomatic order to the business world, and benefit states by revitalising the economy. Young professionals often meet their first foreign partners without preparation in these matters. Business Diplomat can give them the knowledge and the practice that make those first contacts easier.

Conclusion
Protocol knowledge helps businesspeople communicate and negotiate better across cultures. Business Diplomat aims to provide it to every member.