It doesn’t matter whether you’re working in business or government, at this level, as a PR pro, your relationship and liaison
game needs to be on point! So, are you wondering how to make it in this space?
media update’s Nakedi Phala discusses some key points that can help a PR officer play in the international relations arena.
Here are five points to consider before entering international relations:
Language plays a fundamental role
Language is one of the fundamentals in international relations, especially when a PR practitioner needs to communicate with people from other countries where there’s likely a language barrier.
For example, for a South African, it would be ideal to know English, as it is known to be the
lingua franca in business and global affairs. However, considering that South Africa has strong ties to Brazil, Russia, China (hello,
BRICS!) it would help to learn one or more other commonly spoken languages — even common words and phrases would come in handy!
All in all, being able to speak and understand the languages of other regions is a great advantage because you're able to cope with complexities and translate important messages.
There are many different cultures and traditions
Being in this space means you will experience many different cultures and traditions.
Be it for diplomatic or business reasons, you ought to learn and experience foreign cultures in order to maintain fruitful relationships while you're in that country. And, it is part of the job to master another country’s practices to give you that extra bit of edge.
For example, in India, the meet and greet handshake is not the common Western handshake, but
namaste — done by placing both hands together with a slight bow. Being a communications officer for an official or business practitioner, it’s your job to prepare and lead the way for your clients to avoid custom blunders.
In countries like South Africa, which has Western influence, it’s normal for men to shake women’s hands and vice versa. But, according to eDiplomat
men aren’t allowed to touch women when greeting in India.
Interesting, right?
Research is of the utmost importance
When you’re playing at a global level, you have to up your research, planning and evaluation skills.
Policies, political climate and leaders of countries change; therefore, what you knew about that country months or years ago could no longer be of use. But, constant research can help in your planning of your communications strategy; for example, you can analyse the media landscape, political and business trends to gather a clear understanding of where the organisation or brand you represent can fit in.
Essentially, the role of research is vital when working in foreign land; it’s more than just dig for data — it helps you find gaps and seize opportunities for the benefit of all involved.
Your persuasion ability is key
You need to understand that some PR pros play the game with the kid gloves off, especially in the political sphere. It’s all about who can persuade cleverly.
Thus, you need to sharpen your debating, debate and analysis skills. Make it a norm to take part in debate clubs; this will prepare you for competitive debating and being able to respond to questions impromptu.
For example, if you're a spokesperson attending an international summit and a reporter approaches you with a stinging question, this is when being calm under pressure is beneficial. You’ll know that you need to calculate your thoughts, control your emotions and answer with caution — without putting your organisation into disrepute.
On the global stage, there’s a bigger audience listening and making comments; therefore, you need to be at the top of your game at all times.
Following the news is vital
News is vital when you’re in this field.
Why? Well, when it comes to
local news, you need to stay informed about what’s happening within your proximity. For example, reports of accidents and dangerous routes. This type of information will help pick alternative routes to make it to work and keep your resources safe.
National news gives you a broader understanding and insight of the country’s macroeconomic activities and political climate. For example, if you're conducting a PR campaign, you’ll know which cities, organisations or businesses to target in order to meet your campaign’s requirements. You’ll also know which lobby groups you can associate with or be wary of — depending on which side of the coin you represent.
International news is of the utmost importances. As a PR practitioner in international relations, it’s essential to know about the news in other countries, their cultural differences as well as their economic and political atmosphere.
For example, if you’re watching the news and reports say that a country you were supposed to visit in a week’s time is experiencing huge protests, you’ll know to postpone your trip and stay safe.
It’s clear that IR is PR at a global level. One might even argue that people in IR work twice as hard in order to make it at that level. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments section.