Diplomacy is the platform that brings world leaders together in a collaborative effort to agree on international agreements or resolve global crises. It is the heart of all world laws and treaties, as well as the United Nations Charter itself. Diplomacy creates the shape of world order, from creating or destroying intergovernmental alliances to negotiating trade agreements and economic sanctions.
For centuries, diplomacy was mostly concerned with bilateral relations, or negotiations between two countries or regions. Bilateral agreements remain a key element of diplomatic practice, but today, diplomatic efforts also often include international conferences and summits where dozens or even hundreds of world leaders meet to discuss issues such as immigration, border security and the environment.
One of the most important qualities of a great diplomat is their ability to listen intently to all parties in a situation, regardless of whether or not they share your point of view. Listening carefully is a form of empathy that shows respect for the other person’s perspective. It also allows you to understand how you can best convey your own position without triggering defensiveness.
The next key aspect of diplomatic communication is choosing the right place and time to raise difficult topics. A good diplomat knows how to set the stage for their discussion by choosing a quiet location, speaking in a polite tone of voice and avoiding offensive body language.
Finally, the most successful diplomats are able to communicate their points clearly and succinctly. If you can’t make your arguments concisely in writing or on the podium, it is unlikely that superiors will be able to understand them, and that will undermine your diplomatic mission.