Business Diplomat: Dress and Speech

A proverb can say in one line what a manual says in a chapter. In this part of its interview series, Business Diplomat presents how Prof. Dr. Birol Mercan uses one to open his view of diplomacy in business.

First observation: the proverb
“There is a saying: ‘You are welcomed by your clothes and seen off by your speech.’”
The first half concerns appearance and first impressions. The second half concerns what is remembered when the meeting is over: how one spoke, what was said, how one treated others. The proverb places the real judgment at the end, not at the beginning. A good appearance opens the door; conduct decides how one leaves.

Second observation: what diplomacy is
Mercan defines the term: “Diplomacy is the art of managing the processes of protecting, sustaining and looking after mutual interests.” Three verbs describe the task: protecting, sustaining and watching over. And the interests are mutual. Diplomacy, in his definition, is not about winning for one side; it concerns interests both share.

Third observation: both sides gain
He applies this to business: “A businessman invests in the country he goes to for his own interests, while the host country accepts him for its own interests.” Each side has its own reasons. Neither is acting out of charity. This is why the relationship needs management: two sets of interests must continue to meet.

Fourth observation: courtesy and wisdom
Without “diplomatic courtesy and wisdom,” he says, it is unlikely that mutual interests will last long. The word “wisdom” shows that more than manners is needed; judgment is needed too.

The logic of the assessment
Appearance opens and conduct closes. Diplomacy manages processes to protect and sustain mutual interests. Business is a case of mutual interest. And without courtesy and wisdom, mutual interest does not last.

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. The proverb sets a standard for young professionals: be received well and leave well. Business Diplomat can help them develop both.

Conclusion
Business, like diplomacy, begins with a good impression and is judged by how it ends. The skill is to manage processes so that mutual interests are protected and sustained. Business Diplomat aims to teach it.