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Ask "The Protocol Lady"
What is a courtesy call?
A courtesy call, often referred to as a courtesy visit or courtesy meeting is a brief introductory meeting and typically lasts from 15-30 minutes. It can include various protocol elements such as flags, the signing of a guest book, refreshments, an exchange of gifts, a photo opportunity, and on occasion media may participate as well.
Diplomats have traditionally preferred face-to-face meetings when trying to build a relationship and further a country's interest. This is why courtesy calls or courtesy visits are standard protocol around the world. It's an easy way to begin to get to know someone.
When a new ambassador arrives in Washington, D.C. he or she will pay a courtesy call on the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps--the most senior member; then will typically meet with other colleagues.
As a business executive you should follow this model when trying to further your company's interest. Develop a list of key stakeholders when you arrive in a new city, assume a new post or have new objectives and need to influence stakeholders. Pay courtesy calls and get to know these people--take a copy of your annual report or other key information on your company. It's a practical and personal way to build and maintain relationships.
President Obama paying a courtesy call on King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia (President's Photographer)
The Protocol Lady
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| Best Practice: Build Relationships at all Levels and Stay in Touch
I heard Ann Compton, White House Correspondent for ABC News Radio, speak at a luncheon recently and she shared this experience from the early days of her career. In 1974, she was assigned to the White House. She was 27, a woman, and didn't know anyone. She realized that she'd have a hard time getting senior people to meet with her. She decided to pay courtesy calls on deputies as a way to get to know people and build relationships. Over the years she stayed in touch with those people-one of those deputies was a man named Dick Cheney.
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