A Key to Success: Applying Diplomacy in Business and Beyond
Have you ever thought that we are a diplomat is our own rights?
While we may not be engaged in international relations on a global scale like professional diplomats, we often find ourselves navigating various social and professional situations where diplomacy and interpersonal skills are essential.
I recently had the honour of attending an insightful talk by a retired diplomat who had a career of 37 years in the Foreign Service. During his career, he served at the Singapore Permanent Mission to United Nations in New York and at Singapore Embassies in the United States and Thailand. He was Ambassador to Cambodia, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain between 2004- 2019.
Mr Anderson shared about diplomats' crucial role in shaping Singapore's and its citizens' interests, particularly as our nation approaches its 58th birthday. The parallels drawn between diplomacy and professional salesmanship opened my eyes to the profound impact diplomacy has, not only on a global scale but also in our daily interactions.
A diplomat's role, I learned, is akin to that of a skilled salesperson but on a grander stage. Like a master relationship-builder, a diplomat must know how to forge alliances and influence others positively. Their success lies in adding value to every relationship, ensuring that Singapore remains an attractive partner on the global stage.
At the core of Singapore's foreign policy is the goal of finding common ground with other nations and establishing win-win collaborations. This principle mirrors the essence of successful interactions, both professionally and personally. Regardless of Singapore's size or resource constraints, the nation's relentless resourcefulness has propelled it to become a first-class nation, and diplomats play a critical role in building trust and friendship with other countries.
Drawing parallels to the corporate world, we find that each one of us is a diplomat in our own right, constantly pitching ideas and seeking to generate interest. Just like a diplomat tailors their approach to appeal to different countries, we must learn to influence others subtly, presenting our ideas in a way that makes them feel like their own initiative.
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In any relationship, sincerity is paramount, but we must also be astute enough not to be taken advantage of. Balancing trust and caution allows us to build authentic connections while navigating the complexities of an uncertain world.
Applying diplomatic skills to our daily lives can lead to meaningful and successful interactions. Whether it's persuading a loved one to try a new restaurant or negotiating a business deal, diplomacy helps us foster understanding, empathy, and respect.
As we celebrate our country's 58th birthday, let us take inspiration from the diplomatic approach of seeking common ground and forging win-win collaborations. Embracing diplomacy in our personal and professional lives can transform how we relate to others, create lasting partnerships, and overcome challenges.
By looking at the world through the eyes of others, we gain invaluable insights into their interests and concerns, and this understanding empowers us to create positive outcomes. In a world filled with uncertainty and turbulence, let us remain open, empathetic, sincere, and adaptable.
So, the next time you find yourself in a position to influence, remember the diplomat's creed: "Be sincere but not naive, shrewd but not duplicitous."