Public Relations

Protocol and Diplomatic Etiquette

Protocol ensures official events and interactions run with dignity, respect and precision. This course covers the principles of protocol, orders of precedence, forms of address, flags and seating, official correspondence, gift exchange, cross-cultural etiquette and organising official visits.

5 days Classroom or live online English

Smart Horizon Certified - Global Leadership Consultants

Take the course details with you.

Download the full standard outline: why attend, methodology, objectives, audience, competencies, the daily outline and current plans.

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Why attend

From knowledge to real-world impact.

Protocol mistakes can embarrass organisations and offend important guests. You will learn to handle official occasions with confidence.

Workplace challenges

Professional Problems This Course Is Designed to Solve

The programme explores practical approaches to the following challenges. Results depend on how the learning is applied in your organisation.

Difficulty translating subject knowledge into practical workplace decisions.
Inconsistent approaches to the activities covered in the course outline.
Lack of a structured plan for applying and reviewing new skills.

Course methodology

How you will learn.

Precedence exercises, seating plan workshops, correspondence drafting and event simulations.

Course objectives

What you'll take away.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Explain the principles and purpose of protocol
Apply orders of precedence
Use correct forms of address
Plan seating, flags and table arrangements
Draft official correspondence and invitations
Respect cross-cultural etiquette and gift customs

Target audience

Who should attend.

This course is suitable for:

Protocol officers
Executive office staff
Government relations staff
Event managers
Executive assistants

Target competencies

Capabilities you will build.

Participants will develop competencies in:

Precedence
Forms of address
Seating planning
Official correspondence
Cultural etiquette

Course outline

Your learning journey.

A focused, practical outline with time to explore, apply and reflect.

Day 1Protocol Principles

09:00–10:08Purpose of protocol
10:08–11:00National and international rules
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–11:45National and international rules (continued)
11:45–12:53Roles
12:53–14:00Exercise

Day 2Precedence and Address

09:00–10:08Orders of precedence
10:08–11:00Titles
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–11:45Titles (continued)
11:45–12:53Forms of address
12:53–14:00Workshop

Day 3Arrangements

09:00–10:08Seating plans
10:08–11:00Flags
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–11:45Flags (continued)
11:45–12:53Table etiquette
12:53–14:00Exercise

Day 4Correspondence

09:00–10:08Invitations
10:08–11:00Official letters
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–11:45Official letters (continued)
11:45–12:53Replies
12:53–14:00Drafting practice

Day 5Cultural Etiquette

09:00–10:08Cultural differences
10:08–11:00Gift exchange
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–11:45Gift exchange (continued)
11:45–12:53Official visits
12:53–14:00Simulation

The timings provided are estimates and may vary depending on the number of participants and the discussions taking place during the sessions. They are indicative only and do not constitute a binding commitment.

Dates & venues

Find a session that works for you.

Confirmed dates accept registration requests. Tentative dates are enquiry only.

Good to know

A few things to know.

How is the course delivered?

Our classroom programmes combine facilitated discussion, case studies, exercises and reflection. The precise format will be confirmed before enrolment.

Can you deliver this programme for our team?

Yes, you can enquire about a tailored programme. Share your goals, group size and preferred dates with our learning team.

Will I receive a certificate?

Participants who complete the programme receive a Smart Horizon certificate of attendance. Smart Horizon programmes are not externally accredited and do not award a professional qualification, licence or designation. Where a course title or outline refers to a professional certification (for example, AACE International's Certified Cost Professional), the programme supports learning and preparation only; the credential itself is awarded solely by the relevant professional body under its own application and examination requirements.

What should I confirm before booking travel?

Please confirm the session, exact venue, accessibility arrangements, fees and any visa requirements with the team before arranging travel. Tentative dates are not confirmed sessions.

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