Business Diplomat: The Letter of Credence

Most definitions of a business diplomat begin with negotiation or protocol. Prof. Dr. Birol Mercan begins with time. In this part of its interview series, Business Diplomat presents his answer to what the name evokes, and it is about relationships that last.

First observation: long-lasting relationships
“The concept of Business Diplomat brings to my mind the long-lasting relationships that an international entrepreneur builds in the country where he invests or delivers services.”
The focus is on what the entrepreneur builds in the host country, and on its duration. Mercan then defines what he means: long-lasting relationships are “the success of sustaining mutual trust.” The word “success” is important. Trust is not assumed as a starting point; keeping it is an achievement.

Second observation: the ambassador’s example
Mercan turns to history: “As is well known, foreign ambassadors, when they first arrive in a country, have always presented a letter of credence to the leader of the host country.” The letter of credence is a formal request for trust. An ambassador does not begin with demands; he begins by presenting his credentials.

Third observation: the entrepreneur as envoy
From this he draws the conclusion: “Any businessman is, first of all, an envoy who inspires confidence for the other side.” The entrepreneur, like the ambassador, arrives as a guest who must be trusted before anything else can be done.

The logic of the assessment
Relationships that last are the aim. Their substance is sustained mutual trust. History shows how trust is first requested, through the letter of credence. And so the entrepreneur should see himself first as an envoy.

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. Mercan’s emphasis on duration speaks to the long-term benefit the platform seeks. Business Diplomat can teach young professionals to begin every international venture by earning trust.

Conclusion
A business diplomat is measured by the relationships he sustains, and those depend on trust first requested, as an ambassador requests it, and then kept. Business Diplomat aims to prepare young professionals for that role.