How to Be a Diplomat?

For the purpose of protocol, three diplomatic ranks are internationally recognized that are briefly discussed below.

(a) Ambassador / High Commissioner / Councilor A High Commissioner is head of a diplomatic mission under the British Common Wealth System. An Ambassador or High Commissioner is the top most diplomatic rank and has overall responsibility. Likewise, Councilor is the head of a consulate; a small embassy at the metropolitan or other important cities to facilitate embassy. (b) Minister Residence / Minister Plenipotentiary / Envoy Extra-Ordinary Minister Residence, Minister Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extra-ordinary (Special Envoy) are second category diplomats.

Generally a special task is assigned to them by the State.
They are directly responsible to the head of the State. (c) Attache An Attache is an expert in his own field and is attached to an embassy during the period of his stay. An embassy is responsible to provide administrative and other facilities to attache e.
g. military or air attache.
Role of a Diplomat The role of a diplomat includes the following:- (a) Formulation of Policies A diplomat is to formulate government goals, explain them abroad and to persuade others to adjust their policies with respect to the national objectives of his State.
A diplomat collects valuable information, observes the developments and reports them in host country, and negotiates all issues which fall under his jurisdiction e.g.
either to avoid or to incite a war.

(b) Communication Skills A good diplomat is a tactful communicator unless the policy of his nation is to prepare the way for war.
To the realists "a diplomat is an honest man, sent abroad to tell lies for the good of his country".

He must have vast knowledge in his field, patience to face media and skill to adjust in variety of situations. (c) Eyes and Ears The functions of diplomat include obtaining information, safeguarding interests of his government and extending the horizon of commerce. He provides personal links between governments on subjects of mutual interests by virtue of professional expertise and skills, and makes judgment about policies of the host country.
A diplomat is assigned an important task to provide certain support in the formation of foreign policy either through official acts, parties or secret covert means. He may utilize extensive staff, information, reports, debates or parties where rigid protocol does not exist and increase confidence through personal relationships.
(d) Protection of the Nationals and Property Abroad A diplomat provides protection to the life and property of own nationals who must be represented by legal counsel. If local government doesn't provide support and guidance to a citizen on some issue like any commercial or financial case, social interests, passport or visa facilities etc.

, then the diplomat provides necessary support to him.

(e) Symbolic Image The diplomat, in addition to attending ceremonial occasions, must address foreign groups and remains present at all levels to which his country is somehow related. (f) Promoting Commercial Interests A diplomat is also responsible for the extension of commerce and trade relations which include shipping and navigation, opening of new markets and facilities, promotion of culture and tourism etc.