Convergence Class by Larah Grace Fermill

The convergence class we had last Saturday June 21, 2014 was really fun and interesting. It was really a surprise for me that medical doctors from Capitol University’s doctorate class also came over to join us with our class. The presented topics were also very much appreciated. Knowing the proper etiquette in business meetings and even formal gatherings is a lot helpful especially for me that I attend corporate meetings most of the time. Being in this kind of situation means that I should be more cautious and be presentable as much as possible in order for me to get the respect my clients would be expecting at the same time preventing from offending them.

I was very much fascinated especially on the topic about the different practices countries observed when they welcome their guests and meet important people. We can really observe that we have a very diverse culture and traditions in every nation and these contribute to the uniqueness of approaches we have for people. I was able to understand the importance of being able to know ahead of time what the interest of the people I will be meeting are. These information would help me prepare the necessary preparations I have to make, of course to satisfy and please these important people. Being able to know what they would love to see and expect would somehow create a good impression and at the same time eliminate worries for the rest of the event.

I also got engrossed with the talk on diplomacy as well as its brief history as shared by the invited very good guest speaker. These topics are not very much taught on our college days that I just heard about it during that time. It takes a lot of practice and confidence to really build yourself and speak in behalf of your nation. It was also discussed that negotiations from one country to another were already done even a long time ago and this still continues to be observed. The art of diplomacy has a long-storied history. It is the practice of verbal discussion with the intent to influence, transmit a position or negotiate on a given issue or situation for a mutually acceptable outcome. It is often called an art because each situation requires a unique mixture of empathy, persuasion, bluster, and cajoling amongst other things.

I personally believe that diplomacy is vital in international relations because without being diplomatic you can’t protect your national interest and neither can we work with other countries. That’s the key importance of diplomacy. One of the major lessons in the history of diplomacy is that the personal factors continue to play a key role. The international diplomatic partnership is now more feasible than before, in particular because of the gradual unification of the national styles of diplomacy. International organizations and multilateral diplomacy are effective "melting pots" of cultural differences. Diplomatic methods are becoming universal. However, national styles still exist and should be studied and taken into consideration in the practical diplomatic work. National style is difficult to define though it is an important ingredient of the art of diplomacy. But of course a national style should not be mixed up with an inappropriate behavior when a so-called diplomat disregards local cultural, religious and specific features of other nations.

In summary, I can say that I enjoyed a great Saturday morning listening to those wonderful talks and discussions on the global issues on diplomacy and best is ending it with a heavy delicious lunch. Looking forward to have a learning session this fun and vibrant.